Project Description
FROM THE AIA MARYLAND
This project is from a multidisciplinary urban design competition that challenges students to devise a comprehensive development plan for a large, urban area. This year’s site, in downtown New Orleans, has a rich neighborhood context, including the historic French Quarter, Central Business District, and Tremé, a low income area with a renowned musical history. The neighborhood is an underdeveloped mix of residential, commercial and industrial uses facing strong pressure for growth. Two very large, soon to be completed projects bolster future development: a veteran’s hospital and university medical center along Canal Street, and the Lafitte Greenway, a 3 mile linear park. I-10, an elevated highway, presents a barrier that could be reimagined and transformed for public use. The proposed design should absorb growth while retaining existing low income citizens, bridge surrounding neighborhoods, and celebrate the site’s rich history and culture.