News

June 10, 2025 | From City of New Orleans

The City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board to Conduct Adult Mosquito Abatement Tonight

The City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board (NOMTRCB) will conduct spray missions tonight, targeting adult populations of mosquitoes. Treatments will be conducted by truck between the hours of 8 p.m. to 12 a.m., weather permitting, in the following areas:

• Algiers & Tall Timbers/Brechtel bounded by General De Gaulle Drive, the parish line, Behrman Avenue, and the Intracoastal Waterway.

November 7, 2024 | From City of New Orleans

Mayor's Office of Nighttime Economy and Health Department Announce Developing Series of Free Narcan and Stop the Bleed Trainings for Hospitality Workers

The Mayor's Office of Nighttime Economy, in collaboration with the Health Department, is excited to announce a developing series of Narcan and Stop the Bleed trainings to equip hospitality workers with critical, life-saving skills. These free trainings will provide participants with the knowledge to respond effectively to overdose incidents and severe injuries, helping to make the nightlife community safer. To maximize accessibility, trainings will be scheduled in neighborhoods across the city.

October 16, 2014 | From City of New Orleans

Kick Off Season 7 of Midnight Basketball with Us This Saturday

NOLA FOR LIFE Midnight Basketball Season 7 Launch Event
7:00pm, Registration
8:00pm – 12:00am, Tournament Play
Saturday, October 18, 2014
St. Roch Playground
1800 St. Roch Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70117

Part of the NOLA FOR LIFE strategy, Midnight Basketball provides safe recreational opportunities for young men through basketball, mentorship and support. After six successful seasons, NOLA FOR LIFE is excited to launch Season 7, with the theme "Be Phenomenal."  Come out and join us for our kick-off celebration this Saturday at 8pm at St. Roch Playground where there will be great competition, music, and food.  Register to play in person at the kick-off event.

September 1, 2017 | From City of New Orleans

Low-interest SBA disaster loans available for renters, homeowners, businesses and nonprofits

On September 1st, the City of New Orleans reminded residents and businesses impacted by the August 5 flood in New Orleans about recovery resources available, such as low-interest federal disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration and other types of assistance from non-profit organizations.

Response to Flooding

Following the August 5 flooding, New Orleans Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (NOHSEP) conducted damage assessments along with State and Federal officials. Collectively, the City has identified nearly 1,000 reports of damage to homes and businesses as a result of the August 5 flood.

Due to the highly-localized flooding and the differences block-by-block in flooding impacts, city officials along with local recovery partners also conducted individual outreach door-to-door immediately following the flood. The Office of Economic Development also conducted outreach to businesses and hosted business information sessions. In continued support of recovery efforts from this event, the City encourages anyone with questions on debris collection, flood clean-up or available resources to call 311 or visit http://ready.nola.gov/incident/august-flood/recovery/ .

According to FEMA, over 698 insurance claims have been filed in New Orleans through its National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center Open until Sept. 14

On August 22, Mayor Landrieu announced that SBA would offer low-interest federal disaster loans to Louisiana businesses and residents affected by flooding that occurred August 4-6, including August 5 flooding in New Orleans. As of August 30, nearly 275 people have visited the SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center, 163 loan applications have been issued and 106 have been submitted, and three loans have been approved.

Loans are open to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by the flooding and torrential rainfall. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including vehicles.

Since August 23, SBA representatives have been on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application. The Center will remain open until September 14. The center (Mid-City Library, 4140 Canal St. on the second floor in the Long Room) is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Fridays. The Center will be closed in observance of Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 4. No appointment is necessary.

Applicants can apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela . Applicants can also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call (800) 877-8339. The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is Oct. 23, 2017. The deadline to return economic injury applications is May 22, 2018. ​For more information, read the SBA disaster loan fact sheet in English  or Spanish .

SBA declared a disaster in response to a request received from Gov. John Bel Edwards on Aug. 17, 2017. The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard and St. Tammany parishes.

To view other recovery resources for those affected by the August 5 flood, visit http://ready.nola.gov/incident/august-flood/recovery/ .

Flood Recovery Resource Center 

From August 16 to August 19, the City of New Orleans hosted a flood recovery resource center to provide flood-affected residents and businesses additional access to information and resources. The resource center saw nearly 520 individuals across four days. Organizations provided individuals information and resources to help fix flood-damaged homes and businesses; provided legal assistance for tenants facing eviction and to avoid contractor fraud; and help in obtaining Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, rental assistance and donated goods.

To view resources still available, visit http://ready.nola.gov/incident/august-flood/recovery/ .

April 17, 2018 | From City of New Orleans

Main Library Renovation Schedule & Information Closed through Sunday, May 13

In its almost 60-year history, the Main Library has never received any significant renovation work, until now. The updates will primarily occur on the first floor and will include the following:

• a new layout that utilizes the space more efficiently

• new flooring

• painting

• new shelving

• additional computers

• new furniture

The new layout will feature a lobby with exhibit displays, a program/community meeting room, a self-checkout area, and an expanded computer/tech area. The Main Library Children’s Area and Teen Zone on the 2nd Floor are temporarily closed through April 29. Main Library will be closed from Sunday, April 15 through Sunday, May 13th. The Library will reopen at 10am on Monday, May 14.

March 29, 2016 | From City of New Orleans

Master Plan Amendment Process to Begin in April

The Plan for the 21st Century, commonly referred to as the Master Plan, is a City Charter-mandated planning framework for the core systems that shape New Orleans’ physical, social, environmental, and economic future. The Plan for the 21st Century reflects the values and priorities that emerged through a community participation process and is grounded in information assembled for the first time in one place. In 2010, the Plan was unanimously adopted by both the City Planning Commission and the City Council and was signed by Mayor Mitchell Landrieu. 

On October 27, 2015, The City Planning Commission confirmed the need for amendments to the Master Plan. Though the Master Plan is designed to take New Orleans through the year 2030, it is heavily focused on recovery from the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent failures of the levee systems.  While disaster recovery was the immediate priority, the need to plan for the city’s long-term future is also necessary. Since the adoption of the Master Plan in 2010, the City has worked with numerous partners on initiatives recommending how New Orleans should adapt to a changing natural environment, create flexible and reliable systems, invest in economic development, and prepare the city for future disasters. These and other initiatives may be considered for incorporation into the Master Plan.

The following schedule is set for the 2016-2017 Master Plan amendments:

• Organization/Outreach (1/1/16 – 4/10/16)
• Open Application Period (4/11/16 – 6/30/16)
• Charter-mandated review and approval process (7/1/16 – 7/1/17)

For more information on the amendment process and to view applications as they are received, visit nola.gov/city-planning.

September 3, 2018 | From City of New Orleans

MAYOR CANTRELL DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY AS CITY HALL CLOSES FOR NON-ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL

Mayor LaToya Cantrell today declared a state of emergency for the City of New Orleans in advance of Tropical Storm Gordon. The storm is expected to affect the Gulf Coast by Tuesday evening and may turn into a Category 1 hurricane depending on its path.

Mayor Cantrell ordered that City Hall and City government offices be closed Tuesday for non-essential personnel. Only emergency personnel will be on hand.

The closure affects all NORDC employees as well. "I am taking these steps to insure that the City of New Orleans is as safe and secure as possible," Mayor Cantrell said.

September 4, 2018 | From City of New Orleans

MAYOR CANTRELL ORDERS CITY HALL OPEN TOMORROW FOR HALF-DAY, RESPONDING TO IMPROVED OUTLOOK

Mayor LaToya Cantrell tonight ordered that City Hall and all City government offices be opened for a half-day tomorrow, Wednesday, September 5th. The decision was made in response to an improved outlook relative to the potential weather impacts of TS Gordon.

City Hall and City government offices, to include NORDC and the NOPL, are ordered open beginning at noon on Wednesday.“

The bottom line is that we have work that needs to get done. The people’s business,” said Mayor Cantrell. “We are grateful that the anticipated impact of TS Gordon has lessened to the degree that work can resume sooner than expected. Understanding this may be a challenge for employees with children out of school --- we encourage our City workers to bring their children with them where practical, and ask our supervisors to make reasonable accommodations.”

September 4, 2018 | From City of New Orleans

MAYOR CANTRELL UPDATES RESIDENTS TUESDAY ON TROPICAL STORM GORDON

NEW ORLEANS — Mayor LaToya Cantrell this morning updated residents on preparations for Tropical Storm Gordon as it continues its approach toward the Gulf Coast.

 

“We are all in this together. Please check on neighbors, family and friends. I’m asking all residents to do their part in getting ready for this storm. The City’s absolute, number one priority is to ensure the safety of our residents. We’ve worked all weekend to ensure that we’re prepared. Together, we’re ready for Gordon,” Mayor Cantrell said.

 

State of Emergency Declared
Both Mayor Cantrell and Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency for the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana, respectively, with only essential emergency personnel reporting for work. New Orleans residents are encouraged to get updates at ready.nola.gov.

 

Tropical Storm Gordon to Impact Gulf Coast Late Tuesday
The center of Gordon will move across the eastern Gulf Coast today and is expected to reach the central Gulf Coast by late this afternoon or evening, moving inland over the Mississippi River Valley tonight or early Wednesday. The maximum anticipated sustained winds are near 65 miles per hour (mph) with higher gusts. Additional strengthening is expected today, and Gordon will likely be a hurricane when it makes landfall along the central Gulf Coast. Rapid weakening is expected once Gordon moves inland.

 

Local impacts expected continue to be heavy rain, high winds and storm surge in areas outside the levee system. Heavy rain is likely with widespread rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches over the next 3 days, with the heaviest rainfall coming this afternoon through Wednesday. There is the potential for significantly higher local amounts if rain bands move over an area for extended periods. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect.

 

Tropical storm-force winds could reach the area as early as this afternoon, with the potential for winds of 40 to 70 mph. Scattered power and communication outages as well as downed trees and roadway signs are possible. A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for the area. 

 

A Storm Surge Watch remains in effect for coastal areas, with the possibility of 2 to 4 feet of surge. The City of New Orleans has issued a voluntary evacuation order for areas outside of the levee system, including Venetian Isles, Irish Bayou and Lake Catherine. A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect for Lakes Pontchartrain and Maurepas, with 1 to 2 feet of inundation possible.

 

City Prepared for Heavy Rain, Winds
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is actively working with our local, state and federal partners to monitor and prepare for potential impacts from this system. 

 

The Sewerage & Water Board (SWB) staff continues to hold regular meetings to prepare for the incoming weather. The drainage system has 116 out of 120 pumps available, with a 1,000 cubic-feet-per-second pump back online for emergency use at Drainage Pumping Station 13 in Algiers. The agency can produce more than 77 megawatts (MW) of 25 Hz power – more than what is needed to run the entire drainage system. Turbines 3, 4, 5 and 6 are available to provide power, and turbine 1 is available for emergency use. Crews are standing by, ready to operate every large pump station and to monitor automated stations and pumps at underpasses.

 

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has and will continue to clean and unclog catch basins, as well as flush drain lines in flood-prone areas. To reduce risk of street flooding, do not park in front of or on a catch basin, and do not dispose of anything in a catch basin. Call 3-1-1 to report catch basins that are not fully functioning. Residents should avoid lifting a catch basin lid or inserting anything into a catch basin.

 

Also, parking restrictions on the neutral ground and metered parking enforcement will be suspended starting at 2 p.m. today.

 

The New Orleans Police Department and New Orleans Fire Department have pre-staged barricades in flood-prone areas to prevent drivers from entering high water. Residents are reminded to never drive through flooded areas and to call 9-1-1 to report major flooding on the road. Motorists who drive faster than 5 mph on streets with standing water are subject to fines. A map of reported street flooding is available at streetwise.nola.gov. Additionally, NOPD will deploy high-water vehicles and boats to districts as needed.

 

The New Orleans Health Department (NOHD) will be prepared to open a Medical Special Needs Shelter post-storm for people who cannot stay in their home due to power outages for their medical equipment. People who believe they need to go to the shelter should call 3-1-1. Residents who have medical or mobility issues should call 3-1-1 to register, update their information or if they have medical needs during the storm. The Special Needs Registry call center is open and will be available 24/7 through the storm. 

 

The Real-Time Crime Center, which is staffed 24/7, utilizes the network of cameras citywide to provide situational awareness during severe weather to City leaders, emergency managers and first responders.

 

Residents are encouraged to prepare for rain and review hurricane plans. Gordon is moving quickly, and we could see impacts of wind and rain as early as this afternoon. Residents are encouraged to rush preparedness activities to completion this morning. Prepare your property for heavy rain and wind: clear gutters, downspouts and in front of catch basins; secure outdoor furniture, decorations and trash cans. You can move your vehicles to neutral grounds at 2pm. Please do not block intersections or streetcar tracks. Make sure you have bottled water, non-perishable food, medications and a flashlight.

 

When severe weather arrives, shelter in place at your home. Stay off the roads during heavy rain and high winds. Never drive through flooded areas, and call 911 to report major flooding or other life-threatening emergencies. Our 311 call center remains open for information and non-emergency services.

 

Find updated information about the storm at ready.nola.gov and on social media @nolaready. Sign up for emergency alerts by texting your zip code to 888777 or online at ready.nola.gov.

 

Additional City Departments Are Prepared

 

Parks & Parkways

Essential personnel are on alert and prepared to respond to emergencies as weather conditions allow. Forestry dump trucks have been emptied and readied for debris collection on both the East and West banks.

 

Sanitation

• Trash and recycling collection will continue as scheduled today (Tuesday).
• Sanitation will provide an update today for Wednesday, based on the updated weather forecast. However, service will NOT be provided Wednesday for areas outside the levee system, which include Lake Katherine, Highway 11 and Venetian Isles area, because the water has started rising already. The next scheduled collection day for this area is Saturday.
• Generally, please secure your trash can and recycling carts BEFORE high winds and potential flooding so that they aren't carried away.

Construction & Road Work

All City contractors on active construction sites have been instructed to secure their job sites to prevent damage and minimize debris.

 

Department of Public Works (DPW)

Today through Thursday (Sept. 4-6): Five trucks are scheduled to be deployed (locations decided per DPW Maintenance Division and as needed per flooding reports).

 

New Orleans Schools

The Orleans Parish School Board has been in communication with school leaders across city. School has been cancelled for today (Tuesday). The Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) has advised public and school leaders that there will be an announcement today about Wednesday ASAP. The Archdiocese of New Orleans is also planning an announcement.

 

Other Agencies Are Prepared

 

Flood Protection Authority Prepares for Gate Closures
The Flood Protection Authority (FPA) – East continues to prepare for Tropical Storm Gordon. Seven floodgates are planned for closure (along Industrial Canal) plus the Caernarvon Sector Gate (St. Bernard). There is no planned closure of Highway 90, Highway 11 or lakefront floodgates. There will be continued coordination and communication with the Sewerage & Water Board on three Lakefront Permanent Pump Stations. Currently, there is no plan to operate these stations.

 

Gate closure alerts will continue to be sent out via the FPA alert system, which citizens can sign up for by following the AlertSense signup link at https://www.floodauthority.org.

 

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport Remains Open
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is conducting normal operations at this time. Delays and cancellation of flights will be decided by individual airlines. When sustained wind speeds are 40 mph or greater is typically when airlines cancel flight operations. Airport parking may be restricted to ticketed passengers only.

 

RTA Prepares Service Adjustments
RTA operations teams are preparing for possible service interruptions due to Tropical Storm Gordon. If sustained winds exceed 35 mph, or other conditions cause roads to become impassable, RTA transit services will be discontinued. RTA will send out public notices detailing service interruptions as weather conditions change. Ferries are currently operating on their normal weekday schedule. Teams are preparing for the storm and will monitor weather reports through the day today and tomorrow. Service alerts are available at http://www.norta.com/Maps-Schedules/Service-Alerts.aspx.

 

Entergy Prepares for Service Issues
Entergy is prepared to respond to any potential impacts Tropic Storm Gordon may bring to the area. Line and vegetation contractors are on standby, ready to respond immediately following the storm. Scouting teams are prepared to assess damages after the storm. Proactive communications with SWB leadership remain in place.

 

Entergy keeps customers informed about power outages and restored power in several ways:

• A free app is available for iPhone or Android at entergyapp.com. Customers can use the app to report outages or check on the status of power at their homes or businesses.
• Entergy’s outage map shows where outages are located and gives information about restoration progress.
• Customers can send and receive text messages about storm and restoration efforts. Signing up is easy; simply text REG to 368374.
• The Entergy Storm Center has storm safety, preparation, restoration and other information that is regularly updated.

 

 

February 7, 2019 | From City of New Orleans

Mayor Cantrell, Park Partners to Discuss Park Millage Proposal in Neighborhood Meetings

Join Mayor LaToya Cantrell and New Orleans' Park Partners to learn more about the city-wide parks millage proposal in a series of neighborhood meetings that will run from Feb. 7 through Feb. 25 throughout the city.

This proposal will not raise new taxes. The plan being put before the voters would adjust the millage rates for the Audubon Commission, the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) and Parks and Parkways in part to allow City Park to finally receive dedicated funding. Audubon’s proposed adjusted millage would be reduced to 1.95 mills ($6.59 million) from 3.31 mills ($10.92 million); NORDC's adjusted millage would be increased to 1.95 mills ($6.59 million) from 1.5 mills ($4.95 million); and Parks and Parkways’ millage would be increased to 1.8 mills (or $6.08 million). This adjustment would allow City Park to have a millage of .61 mills (nearly $2.06 million). The City Council unanimously approved the ordinance to put the proposal before voters on a referendum May 4, 2019.

All meetings will run from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The schedule is as follows:

DISTRICT A MEETING -- FEB. 12

City Park, Parkview Terrace Room

DISTRICT B MEETING -- FEB. 7

Lyons Recreation Center

DISTRICT C MEETING -- FEB. 13

Algiers Regional Library

DISTRICT D MEETING -- FEB. 19

Corpus Christi Community Center

DISTRICT E MEETING -- FEB. 25

East New Orleans Regional Library

Here's how each of the Park Partners would benefit from the proposal:

• City Park, which will receive City funding for the first time, will be able to provide security patrols that can operate 24/7 to ensure park safety. Additional funding will also help with repairs to its aging infrastructure while improving its stormwater drainage, among many other benefits.
• NORDC, meanwhile, can leverage its increased funding to expand its programming and open up opportunities to partner with outside entities to provide other services – whether it’s for young children, teens or senior citizens.
• Audubon Commission, with its dedicated funding in place, can enrich recreational programming for our kids, while making capital improvements and increased programming at the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center and the Wilderness Park on the West Bank. Audubon also has committed itself to expand access and programs for the community, including free and discounted days, a library pass partnership, and more opportunities that connect New Orleanians to nature.
• Parks and Parkways can use its increased funding to pay for two additional grounds maintenance crews, one additional forestry crew and all of their supporting equipment to continue beautifying our public green spaces, neutral grounds and corridors.

Mayor Cantrell also will set up an inter-agency coordinating group, which is in line with the City's Master Plan to create more collaboration among the managing agencies of four of the city's most important park spaces.

April 3, 2017 | From City of New Orleans

Mayor's Interfaith Prayer Breakfast

On Friday, March 31, 2017, Mayor Mitch Landrieu hosted faith leaders from across the parish at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant to discuss pressing issues in the spiritual community. After a few words and a blessing from Archbishop Gregory Aymond, attendees enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by New Orleans’ own Leah Chase and family.

 

After the meal, Mayor Mitch Landrieu addressed the attendees. Mayor Landrieu encouraged faith leaders to remain steadfast in their commitment to inclusivity and diversity as we lift up New Orleans as a welcoming and equitable city.

 

Following questions from faith leaders, the Mayor yielded the podium to Bishop Darryl S. Brister to offer remarks and a closing prayer.

 

As bishops, pastors, rabbis, and imams from throughout the City ate breakfast Friday morning, we were truly reminded what it means to be one team, one fight, one voice, one city.

 

Special thanks to all who attended, and to the wonderful Leah Chase for her warm hospitality. 

July 31, 2019 | From City of New Orleans

Mayor's Neighborhood Engagement Office Resumes Community Office Hours

The Mayor’s Neighborhood Engagement Office (NEO) is excited to announce the return of Community Office Hours (COH), effective Monday, Aug. 5, 2019. Come out to one of our seven COH locations and meet your Neighborhood Liaison! Bring your questions, comments and concerns; NEO looks forward to working with you. See you soon!

What: City Hall Hosts Community Office Hours

When: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Locations

District A: Community Commitment Education Center (8540 Spruce St.)

            August            5-7; 12-14; 19-21; 26-28

            September      3, 4, 9-11, 16-18; 23-25; & 30

            October           1, 2; 7-9; 14-16; 21-23; 28, 29 and 30

            November       4, 6, 12,13; 18-20

District B: Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center (4300 S. Broad Ave.)

            August              5-7; 12-14; 19-21; 26-28

            September        3, 4, 9-11, 16-18; 23-25; & 30

            October             1, 2; 7-9; 14-16; 21-23; 28, 29 and 30

            November         4, 6, 12,13; 18-20

District C: Eastbank: Treme Coffeehouse (1501 St. Phillip St.)

            August            6, 12, 14, 20, 26 and 28

            September      3, 9, 11, 17, 23 and 25

            October           1, 7, 9, 15, 21, 23 and 29

            November       4, 6, 12, 18 and 20

District C: Westbank: Arthur Monday Multi-Service Center (1111 Newton St.)

            August            5, 7, 13, 19, 21 and 27

            September      4, 10, 16, 18, 24 and 30

            October           2, 8, 14, 16, 22, 28 and 30

            November       13 and 19

District D: Pontilly Coffee (4000 Chef Menteur Hwy.)

            August          5-7; 12-14; 19-21; 26-28

            September    3, 4, 9-11, 16-18; 23-25; & 30

            October         1, 2; 7-9; 14-16; 21-23; 28, 29 and 30

            November     4, 6, 12,13; 18-20

District E: New Orleans East: East New Orleans Regional Library (5641 Read Blvd.)

            August            6, 12, 14, 20, 26 & 28

            September      3, 9, 11, 17, 23 & 25

            October           1, 7, 9, 15, 21, 23 & 29

            November       4, 6, 12, 18 & 20

District E: Lower Ninth Ward: Sanchez Multi-Service Center (1616 Caffin Ave.)

            August            5, 7, 13, 19, 21 & 27

            September      4, 10, 16, 18, 24 & 30

            October           2, 8, 14, 16, 22, 28 & 30

            November       13 and 19