A transformative new chapter is unfolding along the Mississippi River in New Orleans, as the Audubon Nature Institute begins demolition of the aging Gov. Nicholls wharf to make way for a $30 million public park that promises to reshape the city's connection to its iconic waterfront. Once complete, the new riverfront green space will stretch an impressive 2.25 miles—from Spanish Plaza near Canal Street to the edge of Crescent Park—creating the longest contiguous riverfront park in the United States.
The ambitious project, long in the works and initially timed to debut ahead of Super Bowl LIX, was delayed but is now on track to open its first phase by the end of this ar. The opening will feature a band shell, spacious lawns, and walkable, bike-friendly paths that stitch together the urban fabric of downtown and the French Quarter with the natural beauty of the Mississippi River.
According to Michael Sawaya, the newly appointed CEO and president of the Audubon Nature Institute, the vision is clear: to create an inclusive, accessible park that enhances city life while preserving and celebrating its natural surroundings. Renderings of the future space reveal shaded lawns, an elevated pedestrian walkway, a community center, and designated areas for food trucks, playgrounds, and event rentals.
Half of the project's funding comes from the City of New Orleans, with the City Council approving $15 million in support last year. The remaining balance is being covered through contributions from Audubon itself, the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, and New Orleans & Co.
The new park represents a continuation of a larger riverfront development vision launched in 2017 under then-Mayor Mitch Landrieu, which included the renovation of the World Trade Center into the Four Seasons and the construction of a new ferry terminal. Early concepts for Audubon's portion of the riverfront, such as a Ferris wheel and amphitheater, faced pushback from the community. Planners have since revised their approach, focusing on open-air, low-impact features inspired by successful waterfront parks in cities like Brooklyn, Tampa, and Boston.
The demolition of the Gov. Nicholls wharf will be followed by partial removal of the Esplanade wharf, with final plans for that section still being refined. While the project's overall cost has nearly doubled since its inception, Sawaya emphasized the long-term value of building a resilient and dynamic public space on the edge of one of America's most historic districts.
The new park is just one of several initiatives underway by the Audubon Nature Institute. Nearby Woldenberg Park is receiving utility and lighting upgrades to support larger events. At the Audubon Zoo, a new dinosaur exhibit is being planned for the historic Odenheimer rotunda, while interactive experiences like giraffe feedings are already drawing crowds. Even the zoo's classic carousel is being replaced with a more modern, compact version after attempts to auction the original fell flat.
Back on the riverfront, the upcoming park promises not just a new attraction, but a reimagined way of living with the river. It's a bold investment in the public realm—one that seeks to reconnect the people of New Orleans with the landscape that has shaped their city for centuries.
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