New Orleans is creating streetcar tracks in a rush, due to the Super Bowl approaching in less than three months.
The Associated Press reported that New Orleans is laying tracks to connect on a trolley the Louisiana Superdome and the French Quarter. The Superbowl which is on Feb. 3, the city's 10th time to host the games.
Streets have to be repaved in the French Quarter and potholes and sidewalks are being fixed, reported the AP, especially after Hurricane Katrina where much of the city was left devastated. The newly minted line will start from the Union Passenger Terminal to Canal Street.
Robert Miles a resident of New Orleans said to the AP, "For anybody who's trying to cut down on gas, walk out their front door, go a few blocks and catch the transit system, it'll be good. It was not a waste of money."
The AP reported that funding came from a $45 million federal transportation grant. It is one way the city is revitalizing itself after Katrina. James Amdal, a senior fellow at the Transportation Institute at the University of New Orleans said "Until the streetcar was announced, there was little activity, or anticipation of development along Loyola."
The AP reported that other changes to Loyola include newly renovated high rises that have been empty since even before Katrina and a $75 million retail and residential area called the South Market District that will open its doors soon.
Nola.com reported that about $750 million of projects have been done after Hurricane Katrian near the Superdome where the Superbowl will be. Champions Square entertainment space opened next to the dome as well as a newly renovated Hyatt Regency.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
