THE MARKET REPORT
Where work and culture meet what’s possible.
Seth Knudsen PRESIDENT & CEO
Staff + Board
Charles Bourg
CHIEF OF PUBLIC SAFETY & FIELD OPERATIONS
Dr. Michael J. McKnight, Sr. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Ren é Pastorek, AICP
CHIEF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Jared Brossett
DIRECTOR OF POLICY & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
Donald G. Clouse
PUBLIC SAFETY MANAGER
John Roussell
PUBLIC SPACE OPERATIONS MANAGER
Brandon Smith
QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER
Esther Boone
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
Tyler Correa
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST
Dajuantae Riggins
STAFF ACCOUNTANT
Tempestt Woods
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR
Francia Barradas
CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE PRESIDENT & CEO
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chris R. Ross NAI/LATTER & BLUM, INC | CHAIR
Alex Glaser JONES WALKER | VICE-CHAIR
William Bradshaw II REIMAGINE DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS | TREASURER
Scott Polakoff RESIDENT | SECRETARY
COMMISSIONERS
Gregory Curtis WINDSOR COURT HOTEL
Ryan King DELTA UTILITIES
Edwin Murray LSU HEALTH NEW ORLEANS
David Piscola HILTON NEW ORLEANS
Kenny Rubenstein RUBENSTEINS
Miles Tully, Jr. CAESARS NEW ORLEANS
Frank Zumbo NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT
The Future of Downtown New Orleans
OUR VISION
Downtown New Orleans will be celebrated as the vibrant hub of America’s beloved city and the engine for the region’s economy. Historic and contemporary buildings glow with new residences and retail as Downtown becomes a magnet for a population involved in industries of the mind such as bioscience, the arts, and digital media. Streets bustle with neighbors and visitors alike participating in the arts, music, dining, shopping, and daily business of Downtown. People from around the world are drawn to a dynamic, seductive Downtown where the unique cultural mosaic of New Orleans comes into focus.
OUR STRATEGIES
To realize our long-term vision for a thriving city center, Downtown Development District (DDD) will prioritize strategies focused on the following areas in partnership with the City of New Orleans, State of Louisiana, and other relevant organizations. The Downtown New Orleans Economic Development Strategy is shaped by the following focus areas:
BUSINESS RECRUITMENT, RETENTION, AND EXPANSION
Facilitate the growth and development of new business across key industries like digital media and the biosciences to ensure Downtown’s role as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship. At the same time, continue to nurture existing businesses through targeted retention efforts and business development assistance.
BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Support a thriving real estate development market by coordinating incentives and tax credits to catalytic redevelopment sites near other areas of investment to maximize impact. Moreover, work with City agencies and the development community to both understand and remove barriers to the production of new uses, especially housing.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Encourage development of an inclusive Downtown economy through enhanced partnerships with DBE’s, minority-owned firms, and greater New Orleans youth with a focus on education and training opportunities for future workforce needs.
ADVOCACY AND FUNDING
Advocate at all levels of government for the growth and development of Downtown New Orleans while aggressively seeking grant funds to implement new programs, projects, and incentives.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Advocate for robust, reliable, and predictable public asset management (e.g. traffic control signalization, roadway maintenance, curbs/sidewalks) while developing plans for new and impactful infrastructure projects like iconic parks, stormwater management enhancements, and bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements.
CANAL STREET REVITALIZATION
Utilize all tools available to construct a multi-partnered initiative that transforms Canal Street into a vibrant retail corridor attracting residents and visitors to shop, dine, and connect with the city.
Defining Downtown
The Downtown Development District of the City of New Orleans (DDD) was created by the Louisiana Legislature in 1974 as the nation’s first assessment-based business improvement district
8.9M Total SF of Class A Office Space
Downtown New Orleans stands as the largest center of employment in the State of Louisiana. Moreover, this collection of neighborhoods represents nearly $1B in assessed property value.
26 Transit Routes
476 Retail Businesses
8 Coworking Spaces and 9 Incubators / Accelerators
105 Hotels and 22,399 Rooms
6,370 Condos / Apartments
Moving Downtown Forward
Super Bowl LIX: Impact Beyond the Game
The final score may show that the Philadelphia Eagles won, but Downtown New Orleans took the true trophy home following Super Bowl LIX . Data analyzed from Placer.ai reveals that Downtown New Orleans hosted many visitors throughout the weekend, demonstrating that close to 380K unique individuals spent time within the District between Friday and Saturday; 200K visitors enjoyed everything Downtown has to offer on Super Bowl Sunday alone.
Beyond the economic boost from visitation, business leaders and elected officials have praised the event for its tremendous impact on the local economy. Super Bowl LIX was more than just a game—it was a powerful catalyst for economic growth and community impact in New Orleans. The New Orleans Super Bowl Host Committee released its “Super Bowl by the Numbers” report this quarter, offering a detailed look at how the Crescent City rose to the occasion on the global stage. Among the most striking figures was the record-breaking activity at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, which saw its busiest day ever on Monday, February 10th, with over 43K passengers traveling through in just 24 hours. This surge underscored the city’s appeal and its capacity to host large-scale international events. Economically, the event had a profound ripple effect. The Impact 59 Fund Powered by Entergy distributed more than $3.5 million to regional nonprofits, ensuring long-term benefits for local communities. Additionally, $5 million of the NFL’s event budget was directed toward disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs), reinforcing a strong commitment to inclusive economic development.
In addition to the positive impact on local businesses, DDD was excited to see millions of dollars invested in
infrastructure upgrades in preparation for the Super Bowl. According to a report from Greater New Orleans, Inc., a collaborative effort among city and state agencies, private businesses, and nonprofits resulted in the completion of over 550 projects, ranging from roadwork and lighting improvements to vibrant murals and beautification efforts. This ambitious initiative also secured nearly $800K in funding for key upgrades to the gateways leading into the French Quarter and BioDistrict, further enhancing the city’s appeal and infrastructure ahead of the big event.
Photo Credits: Frank Aymami
Something to Celebrate
DOWNTOWN CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY
Following the buzz of Super Bowl, we are starting to see a wave of construction activity throughout Downtown. Check out the Active Developments Chart and Map for more information on these exciting projects!
1000 HOWARD
Formerly owned by the Archdiocese of New Orleans, this office-to-hotel conversion brings a longblighted structure on the edge of Downtown to life with 39 new hotel rooms.
1010 COMMON
One of the biggest projects under construction right now, this iconic skyscraper is being transformed into two new hotel concepts (Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Element Hotels), renovated office space, and new dining options.
210 ST. CHARLES
Part of the former Whitney Bank Complex, this building is under construction to become a new 37room boutique hotel.
300 ST. CHARLES
One of the oldest buildings in the Central Business District, this property is being renovated to support a new private club, office space, and retention of the ground-floor bank tenant.
Momentum Builds for Strategic Investment
Downtown New Orleans continued to see growth in dining and retail, enhancing its dynamic and vibrant culture with new openings and the support of citizen-led advocacy. Overall, the retail market in Downtown New Orleans experienced stability in terms of square footage, with total retail space holding steady at 7.5 million square feet from Q4 2024 to Q1 2025. However, significant changes emerged in financial indicators, most notably a sharp 9.4% decline in average asking rent per square foot, dropping from $31.53 to $28.56. Moreover, average asking rents have been declining quarterly since a recent peak of $37.92 per square foot in Q4 2023. Meanwhile, vacancy rates slightly increased by 0.5%, reaching 11.5%, with market capitalization rates experiencing a minor uptick to 8.0%. The decline in asking rent underscores potential pressures in retail leasing, indicating an opportunity to employ strategies that bolster tenant attraction and retention.
The recently formed coalition Celebrate Canal! held its inaugural Chamber After 5: Canal Street Champagne Stroll on February 18th, drawing a large crowd eager to network and explore local businesses. Held in partnership with the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, Where Y’Art Works, and DDD, attendees of the successful event enjoyed special previews of the upcoming Windows on Canal art project. As the first of many events planned by the ambitious group, the event marks a significant step toward revitalization of Downtown’s primary commercial corridor. DDD looks forward to future events to draw locals and families to Canal Street like the Children’s Scavenger Hunt, Taste of Canal, Art & Architecture Tour, and more.
Photo Credits: Frank Aymami Photography Photo
New Restaurants Continue to Transform Downtown Retail
Among the latest additions to Downtown’s vibrant dining scene is Boulevard American Bistro at 801 Magazine Street, celebrated with enthusiasm by the DDD and the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce. Offering classic American dishes prepared on a wood-fired grill, Boulevard is poised to become a favored dining spot.
Further adding to the culinary excitement, Maria's Oyster & Wine Bar launched on January 25th at 752 Tchoupitoulas Street, providing a casual yet sophisticated seafood experience. Founded by the team behind Downtown’s successful Plates Restaurant & Bar, the team further expanded with Le Moyne Bistro, serving up contemporary French-inspired cuisine just next door.
At 744 Camp Street, history was reimagined with the opening of Junebug , a late-night dining spot offering an eclectic blend of Southern and French dishes, coupled with a sophisticated ambiance that honors the musical history of New Orleans and the building’s unique background as a recording studio. Complementing
RETAIL MARKET CONDITIONS
Junebug, Secret Spot Flowers —a sustainable flower shop emphasizing local growers—prepares to open its doors within the same venue in the coming months.
Adding an international flair to the local dining scene, Brutto Americano debuted inside the historic Barnett Hotel, blending classic Italian cuisine with local New Orleans flavors. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and stylish design, Brutto Americano has quickly become a standout spot, offering a unique take on Italian fare while celebrating the city's own culinary traditions.
And just in time for Super Bowl LIX, Rizzuto’s Prime made its grand entrance at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. This upscale establishment revitalized the former Borgne location, delivering an Italian-inspired menu that pairs perfectly with prime steak and seafood offerings. With a spacious dining room that accommodates up to 200 guests, Rizzuto’s Prime offers an elegant, yet approachable dining experience ideal for both casual diners and special occasions.
Photo Credit: Anthony LaMothe Photography
Recent Wins: Moving the Needle
Downtown New Orleans continued its rapid ascent as a hub for innovation and technological growth during the first quarter of 2025. Read below for five exciting wins in the tech and innovation market this quarter.
Louisiana Economic Development unveiled its highly anticipated Louisiana Innovation (LA.IO) initiative, significantly elevating the state's role in nurturing high-growth, technology-focused startups. Central to this initiative is the $50 million Louisiana Growth Fund, designed to empower entrepreneurs through substantial federal funding, and the Louisiana Institute for Artificial Intelligence—a pioneering nonprofit aiming to position Louisiana as a leader in AI-driven economic development.
Demonstrating the intersection of innovation and community commitment, Pan-American Life Insurance Group (PALIG) generously donated $1 million to the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, significantly investing in the development of the next generation of medical professionals. This gift will specifically fund stipends for the XOCOM Summer Internship Program, a valuable opportunity aimed at aspiring young doctors, thereby reinforcing Downtown’s role in shaping regional healthcare leadership.
Wave City Market opened on Tulane University's Downtown campus, enriching the local food scene and university-community integration. The market introduces exciting dining options, including creations from renowned local chef Edgar “Dook” Chase IV.
Continuing Downtown’s entrepreneurial momentum, The Idea Village’s 3rd Coast Venture Summit (3CVS) successfully attracted a dynamic gathering of national investors and visionary startup founders from across the Gulf South. Sponsored and actively supported by the Downtown Development District, 3CVS proved instrumental in catalyzing partnerships, generating investor interest in regional founders, and cementing Downtown’s reputation as a destination where innovation thrives and creativity flourishes.
The quarter also witnessed a remarkable achievement in biotechnology, with local firm Beken Bio securing a prestigious Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 1 grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding, facilitated by support from the Downtown-based New Orleans BioInnovation Center (NOBIC), aims to advance breakthrough diagnostic technology for early ovarian cancer detection. Collaboration with esteemed local institutions like LSU Health and Tulane University underscores Downtown’s central role in groundbreaking biomedical research.
Tulane’s Wave City Market Opens Downtown
Further solidifying the Downtown area as a nexus for innovation and entrepreneurship, Tulane University proudly unveiled Wave City Market at its Downtown medical campus, introducing a vibrant, multi-outlet dining experience that has quickly energized both students and the broader community. Situated prominently on the ground floor of the bustling Tulane Medical Center at 1415 Tulane Avenue, the market significantly enhances local dining options, offering an eclectic mix of culinary choices designed to appeal to a diverse clientele ranging from medical professionals and students to neighborhood residents and visitors.
Central to the market’s immediate popularity is its anchoring by prominent local culinary figure Chef Edgar “Dook” Chase IV, who brings his celebrated expertise and deep understanding of New Orleans’ gastronomic heritage
to this exciting new venue. Chase’s concepts within Wave City Market emphasize classic New Orleans flavors, thoughtfully presented with contemporary flair, creating a unique culinary destination that authentically captures the essence of the city.
By blending traditional local fare and hospitality with innovative dining formats and modern convenience, the market not only strengthens community ties but also enriches campus life by offering spaces conducive to casual gatherings, professional interactions, and cultural exchange. Through this thoughtful integration of culinary innovation, community focus, and vibrant atmosphere, Wave City Market symbolizes Downtown’s ongoing commitment to fostering environments that encourage both economic vitality and social connectedness.
Photo Credits: Tulane University
Hotel + Tourism Market
Hospitality Leads in Downtown Metrics
The Downtown New Orleans hotel market demonstrated strong financial performance in the first quarter of 2025, despite a slight dip in demand and occupancy. Total demand declined by 2.6% compared to Q1 2024, while supply modestly increased by 0.9%, leading to a small drop in room occupancy from 69.9% to 67.5%. However, the market experienced significant gains in revenue metrics: the average daily rate (ADR) surged by 23.6% to $263.91, and revenue per available room (RevPAR) climbed by 20.1% to $181.08. These strong increases in ADR and RevPAR highlight Downtown’s growing appeal as a high-value destination, particularly during major events like Super Bowl LIX.
This quarter, the Ernest N. Morial Exhibition Hall Authority Board of Commissioners approved a development agreement with Omni Hotels & Resorts to develop a new headquarters hotel adjacent to the center. The project, which also requires various approvals from the City of New Orleans, would deliver nearly 1,000 additional
Source: City of New Orleans Department of Safety & Permits
hotel rooms and elevated amenities aimed at supporting large-scale conventions, exhibitions, and entertainment events to meet the growing demand for accommodations tied to Downtown’s active convention calendar.
Adding to the quarter’s major highlights, Super Bowl LIX brought unprecedented attention and visitorship to Downtown New Orleans. Over the course of the weekend, hotels throughout the District reported achieving full capacity and showcased Downtown’s continued appeal as an elite event destination capable of handling visitors on a global scale. Beyond hotel stays, the influx of nearly 380,000 visitors energized local restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural institutions, demonstrating Downtown’s ability to offer a comprehensive and memorable visitor experience at the highest levels of international hospitality standards. Preservation and revitalization efforts also took center stage with the reopening of the historic New Orleans Board of Trade at 316 Magazine Street. After 15 months of meticulous renovation led by The Berger Company, the 19th-century landmark has been transformed into a premier event venue that seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary amenities. Enhancements include a newly expanded ballroom, state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, improved acoustics and lighting, and fully accessible spaces, making the Board of Trade a prime location for hosting prestigious events, galas, and conferences. The reopening of this iconic property marks a significant win for Downtown’s cultural and architectural heritage, while simultaneously strengthening its event and tourism economy.
Further affirming Downtown’s strong market fundamentals, the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans —one of the
city’s most prestigious luxury hotels—was acquired by new ownership this quarter. The high-profile acquisition underscores the strength and resilience of the luxury hospitality segment in New Orleans, as well as investor confidence in the future of the Downtown market. The Ritz-Carlton remains a cornerstone of Downtown’s upscale accommodations, and the transition to new ownership paves the way for continued enhancements that will further elevate the guest experience. Together, these milestones paint a vivid picture of Downtown New Orleans as a district on the rise, blending its rich historical legacy with a bold vision for growth, connectivity, and unparalleled visitor experiences.
We continue to build upon our legacy of investing in and enhancing world-class hospitality assets with this significant acquisition that expands our presence in this high-profile destination,” said Gencom founder and principal Karim Alibhai in a recent article in the TimesPicayune regarding its acquisition of the Ritz-Carlton.
HOTEL MARKET CONDITIONS
Above Photo Credits: Frank Aymami Photography
Housing Remains a Focus for Downtown
The multifamily housing market in Downtown New Orleans remained stable in Q1 2025, maintaining an inventory of 6,370 residential units. While the average price per unit for sale held steady at $195,000, the residential vacancy rate inched up from 5.7% to 6.1%, and quarterly absorption turned negative, with 16 more units vacated than leased. Rental rates experienced a modest increase to $2,005 per unit, suggesting that Downtown continues to command competitive pricing despite a short-term dip in leasing activity.
In response to these shifts, the Downtown Development District (DDD) is actively advancing initiatives that encourage adaptive reuse of
ACTIVE MULTIFAMILY DEVELOPMENTS
SOURCE: CITY OF
underutilized properties—particularly upper floors of commercial buildings—for residential use. These efforts are bolstered by federal advocacy surrounding the Revitalizing Downtowns Act, a bipartisan proposal that would provide tax credits for the conversion of vacant office space into housing. If enacted, this legislation could be transformative for cities like New Orleans, where legacy office stock in historic buildings presents a key opportunity to grow housing supply without expanding the built footprint. Together, these policy and planning efforts position Downtown to meet changing residential demand while fostering more inclusive and sustainable urban growth.
The Enduring Legacy of the Julia Row Thirteen Sisters
Tucked between St. Charles Avenue and Camp Street, the Julia Row Thirteen Sisters stand as one of Downtown New Orleans’ most cherished architectural treasures. Built between 1832 and 1833 by George Washington Dunbar, a prosperous merchant and developer, the thirteen identical Greek Revival rowhouses on the 600 block of Julia Street reflect a rare example of speculative residential development in antebellum New Orleans. The homes were designed to appeal to the city’s burgeoning merchant class at a time when the American Sector (now the Central Business District) was rapidly growing into a modern commercial and residential hub.
Characterized by their symmetrical facades, elegant ironwork balconies, and classic columns, the buildings
quickly earned the nickname “the Sisters” for their striking resemblance and unified aesthetic. Over the decades, the Sisters have witnessed the transformation of Julia Street— from residential row to neglected corridor to the cultural artery we know today, home to galleries, institutions, and architectural landmarks.
Their preservation has been instrumental in shaping the identity of the Arts District and has served as a case study in successful historic rehabilitation, blending the charm of 19th-century New Orleans with modern adaptive reuse. Today, many of the buildings house apartments, offices, and art galleries, continuing their legacy as living pieces of Downtown’s cultural and architectural tapestry.
Photo Credits: Frank Aymami Photography
Major Office Tenants See Growth in New Business
The Downtown New Orleans office sector demonstrated considerable momentum in the first quarter of 2025, underscoring the area’s resilience and ongoing evolution as a center for corporate growth, innovation, and investment. The market remained stable through the first quarter of 2025, with total inventory holding steady at 16.7 million square feet. Overall vacancy rates saw a modest increase from 13.1% to 13.5%, while Class A office space experienced a slightly larger uptick, rising from 19.0% to 19.6%. Despite these minor shifts, asking rents remained resilient; average asking rent for all office space held firm at $20.05 per square foot, while Class A space saw a slight increase to $19.81 per square foot. Cap rates also edged upward by 0.3% to 13.5%, reflecting broader market adjustments. Together, these indicators suggest a steady market environment as Downtown continues to attract strategic investment and navigate national office sector trends.
Pan-American Life Insurance Group (PALIG), a longtime cornerstone of Downtown’s business community, announced remarkable financial results for 2024, reporting a record-setting $104.3 million in earnings. This achievement marks a 52% year-
over-year increase, fueled by strong operational performance and the successful acquisition of Encova Life. PALIG’s strategic expansions not only reinforce its leadership position within the insurance industry but also illustrate the strength of Downtown as a stable base for companies pursuing national growth. The company’s achievements further solidify New Orleans’ standing as a competitive location for headquarters and major corporate offices within the Gulf South.
In another major development, Delta Utilities continues to deepen its roots as a headquarter operation in Downtown New Orleans through its acquisition of CenterPoint Energy, Inc.’s Louisiana and Mississippi natural gas systems. This transformative move, along with the coming acquisition of Entergy’s natural gas operations in New Orleans and Baton Rouge this summer, will position Delta Utilities among the nation’s top 40 natural gas providers, with assets valued at approximately $1.7 billion and a growing customer base of nearly 600,000 across the Gulf South. As the company expands its regional footprint, its Downtown headquarters at 201 St. Charles Avenue stands as a major economic anchor,
driving employment growth, increasing corporate investment, and reinforcing Downtown’s strategic importance as an energy and infrastructure hub. Signed in Fall 2024, Delta Utilities’ lease at Place St. Charles represents both the largest new Class A lease in the past 5 years and one of the largest leases in the last decade. Overall, the new headquarters is anticipated to lead to as much as $337M in economic output, 885 annual employment opportunities the New Orleans area, and $15M in local and state tax revenues.
Meanwhile, JECohen, a locally headquartered wealth management and real estate investment firm, announced its merger with Philadelphia-based Insight Total Stewardship, marking a significant expansion of its national footprint. This strategic partnership not only broadens JECohen’s service capabilities but also strengthens its long-term commitment to Downtown New Orleans. Beyond financial growth, JECohen has demonstrated its dedication to Downtown’s revitalization through thoughtful, community-centered development projects. Recent efforts include the restoration and activation of historic properties such as 714 Canal Street—home to retail and boutique hotel offerings—and the ongoing redevelopment of the New Orleans Cotton Exchange Building. These investments exemplify the firm’s belief in Downtown’s potential as both a thriving business district and a vibrant cultural destination.
Photo Credit: JECohen
Visitation Continues to Increase Amidst Investment
Downtown New Orleans celebrated another successful Carnival season in 2025, welcoming close to 1 million revelers between Friday, February 28th, and Wednesday, March 5th. Visitation rates peaked on Saturday, March 1st, as 327.4K paradegoers flocked to the District to enjoy Iris, Tucks, Endymion, and more. These hundreds of thousands of visitors packed nearly every hotel room in the neighborhood, with occupancy rates reflecting the height of pre-pandemic levels. Mardi Gras celebrants did more than just take in the action of the parade route; they also crowded popular Downtown destinations and establishments like Riverwalk Outlets, Caesars New Orleans, and Canal Place—creating an uptick in local spending and sparking growth within the regional economy. DDD is grateful for the spirit, work, and thought behind making Mardi Gras an unforgettable experience for all. We are proud to have hosted so many visitors and residents to experience firsthand the wonder of our neighborhood and the joy of New Orleans’ most beloved tradition.
Improvements in regional connectivity were a highlight of the first quarter, most notably with Amtrak’s announcement that daily passenger
rail service between New Orleans and Mobile will resume starting in June 2025. The revival of this long-anticipated Gulf Coast corridor, dormant since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, promises to significantly enhance tourism, business travel, and economic opportunities across the region. With convenient daily round-trip service and stops in key Mississippi cities like Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, Downtown New Orleans is positioned to become an even more accessible and attractive hub for visitors and residents alike, strengthening ties along the entire Gulf South.
Equally transformative for the Downtown experience, the Downtown Development District (DDD) finalized its Parks and Open Space Cultural Activation Plan this quarter, marking a major milestone in the District’s commitment to enhancing public spaces. The comprehensive plan, developed in partnership with Manning Architects, Spackman Mossop Michaels, Richard Campanella, Burns Innovation Group, and Julien Engineering, offers a visionary roadmap for the revitalization and activation of six key parks and open spaces within DDD boundaries.
Through extensive community engagement— including public meetings, surveys, and stakeholder advisory committees—the plan reflects the voices and aspirations of Downtown residents, workers, and visitors. Its strategies focus on weaving cultural programming, public art installations, green infrastructure, and thoughtful placemaking into each park’s future development. The goal: to create welcoming, dynamic spaces that not only foster recreation and relaxation but also serve as platforms for Downtown’s vibrant arts, music, and cultural life.
As DDD transitions into implementation, the plan will guide efforts to secure partnerships and grant funding opportunities, ensuring these visions are brought to life in collaboration with park owners and city agencies. By reimagining its parks as cultural and community anchors, Downtown New Orleans is investing in a greener, more inclusive, and more inspiring urban core—one that reflects the district’s spirit while meeting the evolving needs of a modern, diverse city.
2025 Parks and Open Spaces Cultural
VISITOR COUNTS BY MAJOR CORRIDOR
Photo Credit: Manning Architects,
Parks and Open Space Plan
Active Developments
Retail 744/748 Camp St Renovations 748 Zen Associates LLC
Retail/ Hotel/ Office 1010 Common Renovation Kailas Companies
Hotel Stay Heirloom Expansion Stay Heirloom
Hotel The George Hotel WestCems Corp
Residential The Gravier Apartments Koobehi Properties LLC
Retail/ Residential 955 Howard Ave Vinson Properties#1 LLC
Retail/ Residential 941 Julia Street Renovation Hadrian Properties LLC
Hotel 516 Natchez St MURA, LLC
Hotel 468 St Joseph St Hotel 468 St Joseph LLC
Retail/ Residential/ Office/ Hotel Charity Hospital 1532 Tulane Partners Inc
Retail / Office Bienville Club Gootee Construction
Hotel 210 St Charles Ave The McDonnel Group, L.L.C.
Hotel 1000 Howard Ave Hotel 1000 Howard Ave Hotel
Office/ Retail Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits
Hotel/
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Retail/
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LET’S MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER ABOUT
THE DDD
Downtown Development District of the City of New Orleans 201 St. Charles Ave, Ste 3912
New Orleans, LA 70170 | 504.561.8927
Created by the Louisiana Legislature in 1974 (LA Rev Stat § 33:2740.3) as the nation’s first assessmentbased Business Improvement District, the Downtown Development District of the City of New Orleans (DDD) provides enhanced economic development and public space services to Downtown New Orleans. It accomplishes its mission through initiatives such as employing dedicated city planners to assist Downtown property and business owners, administering multiple grant programs, employing Public Safety Rangers and Clean Team sanitation workers, providing significant funding for outreach to the homeless and additional New Orleans Police Department patrols and armed private security throughout the District. The DDD services the area bounded by Iberville Street, the Pontchartrain Expressway, Claiborne Avenue, and the Mississippi River.
DDD is funded by a property tax millage assessed on each non-exempt property within the District. DDD’s lifespan was initially ten years, and on December 8, 1979, a successful citywide referendum secured longevity for DDD. It authorized DDD to raise its property tax rate to as much as 22.9 mills (a privilege the DDD has never exercised); it gave DDD the authority to sell up to $7.5 million in bonds for use in capital improvement projects; it extended DDD’s lifespan for an additional 25 years to December 31, 2005; and it provided for a future election in which voters could extend DDD for an additional 25 years beyond 2005. An election was held on April 7, 2001, with 60% voting in favor, and DDD’s lifespan was extended through 2030.