U.S. Rep. Carter Secures Additional $1.4 Million in Federal Funds for Lincoln Beach
Edited by Tribune Staff
Today (July 28), U.S. Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) announced an $1.5 million for the Lincoln Beach redevelopment project from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lake Pontchartrain Basin Restoration Program. The City of New Orleans is expected to use this funding for shoreline protection and beach nourishment measures, which will protect the natural habitats and ecosystems that have taken root at the site while preparing the area for public reopening.
This award is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Rep. Carter helped draft and voted for. Through Community Project Funding requests, Congressman Carter previously secured roughly $4.16 million for the Lincoln Bridge Access Project in the FY 2024 spending bills.
“As a proud son of New Orleans, I’m thrilled to announce this additional funding for Lincoln Beach. This is a big step forward for the New Orleans East community and the preservation of local black history,” said Rep. Carter. “This initiative honors the beach’s deep historical legacy while paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future. The revitalization of Lincoln Beach will create a sanctuary where nature and community thrive together, reconnecting New Orleans East residents to their heritage and environment.”
Located on the southeastern shore of Lake Pontchartrain in the New Orleans East community, Lincoln Beach was a social and cultural hub for Black beachgoers in the Greater New Orleans region during segregation. The beach provided safe access to Lake Pontchartrain's recreational opportunities, especially for those in disadvantaged communities that would not have access otherwise.
Since its closure in 1965, the residents of New Orleans East have been isolated from one of the only points of access to the natural resources of Lake Pontchartrain. However, the Lincoln Beach morphed into a natural oasis with majestic, natural growth live oaks now shading the sandy beach and wooded trails formed by residents exploring the site seeking access to the beach.
Under Mayor LaToya Cantrell, the city of New Orleans has committed nearly $25 million in bond funding and employed a design firm to develop a master plan for reopening Lincoln Beach, with a focus on providing social, cultural and economic opportunities to the community.