New Orleans officials announce safety measures for French Quarter Fest

Raeven Poole
·2 min read
2

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — As the start of French Quarter Festival approaches, officials with the City of New Orleans are announcing their plan for public safety.

City officials are anticipating hundreds of thousands to visit the French Quarter and are encouraging residents to prepare for heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic throughout the weekend.

“I am thrilled for the return of French Quarter Festival, the largest celebration and showcase of Louisiana music in the world. With more than 20 stages playing various genres of music and nearly 60 local restaurants serving up delicious classics, there is something for everyone to enjoy this weekend,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

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City officials said the New Orleans Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness office will activate the City’s Event Command Post for public safety agencies to monitor events.

“Our economy is our culture, so it is vital that we invest in our local culture-bearers to keep it alive. After another safe and successful fest last year, our public safety team stands ready to keep the crowds and streets safe again this year. It takes great coordination and collaboration to host such events, and we are prepared to once again demonstrate to everyone why New Orleans is the best in the world at executing major events and festivals with a rich culture that is absolutely unmatched.”

NOHSEP officials add that they are partnering with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces and the Louisiana State Analytic and Fusion Exchange Center to ensure public safety.

In the wake of the severe weather that hit Southeast Louisiana on Wednesday, April 10, NOHSEP officials said they will continue to monitor the weather along with the National Weather Service.

The New Orleans Police Department will enforce traffic restrictions to ensure pedestrian safety, according to city officials.

From Thursday, April 11 to Sunday, April 14, from 5 p.m. to 12 p.m., city officials said Bourbon Street, from Iberville to St. Ann streets, will be closed to vehicular traffic only allowing emergency vehicles to come through.

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They add that vehicles will be screened as they enter the French Quarter near Iberville, Decatur, Dumaine and North Rampart streets. Only vehicles allowed to drive in the area will be residents, employees, hotel guests and taxis or ride-hailing services.

Further, city officials said from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. the following streets will be closed to traffic:

  • Rampart Street from Iberville Street to St. Ann Street

  • Canal Street from Chartres Street to Burgundy Street

  • Dumaine Street from Dauphine Street to Royal Street

  • Decatur Street from Conti Street to Dumaine Street

  • North Peters Street at Canal Street will close periodically as needed per traffic

Additionally, Regional Transit Authority officials are encouraging riders to plan ahead and purchase fares ahead of time.

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