The Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – West today (March 8) announced the completion of construction of a shared-use trail project in cooperation with the City of New Orleans.
The trail, which continues the existing trail, begins near Odeon Avenue and stretches 3.45 miles downstream to the Chalmette Ferry. The new asphalt trail follows along the crown of the levee and will be primarily used for transportation and recreational activities such as walking, running and bike riding along the Mississippi River. The trail serves as an all-weather access road for Flood Protection Authority operators to use during maintenance and storm events.
“This segment of the Mississippi River Trail provides an essential link in the transportation network of Algiers and our region,” said Ramsey Green, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Infrastructure. “With completion of this project, the trail now provides a continuous route to Gretna and both ferry terminals for connections to the CBD and St. Bernard Parish.”
Members of Flood Protection Authority and District C City Councilmember Kristin Gisleson Palmer — who spearheaded the project — were joined by Rep. Gary Carter and Daniel Jatres with the Mayor’s Office of Transportation to celebrate the expansion of the trail and highlight the importance of transportation and recreational resources for Algiers residents.
“This shared-use trail project represents a partnership between the City of New Orleans and the Flood Authority,” said Nick Cali, SLFPA-W Regional Director. “This is just one example of how SLFPA-W works together with city and parish leaders to improve the quality of life for residents of the West Bank of Jefferson and Orleans parishes.”
“The expansion of the levee bike path was a campaign promise I made to Algiers residents. With the support of SLFPA-W and Mayor Cantrell, I’m thrilled to see it come to fruition,” said Councilmember Palmer. “This is a significant milestone in my commitment to prioritize equitable access to outdoor improvements in every neighborhood in our city.
The first phase of the project included lane striping the 10-foot wide trail and the installation of signs at crossings. There are currently plans for a second phase for the project where benches, lighting and additional access ramps will be added along the trail.
“This is a great day for us because it’s a demonstration of our ability to work together with city agencies in New Orleans to provide a recreational service for our residents,” said Scott Burke, president of the Flood Protection Authority Board of Commissioners.