Current Issues

 

Photo courtesy of NOLA Places

Ted’s Frostop saved from demolition (for now)

June 2026
When developers proposed demolishing the iconic mid-century Ted's Frostop in partnership with Tulane University in March 2026, Louisiana Landmarks Society joined neighborhood groups in opposing the plan through advocacy letters, public testimony, and grassroots outreach, helping secure an HDLC denial of the demolition request and the developer's eventual decision not to appeal.

Actions Taken:

Outcome
Demolition appeal withdrawn. Please keep posted for further updates

Short Term Rentals

Louisiana Landmarks Society has joined VCPORA, the Preservation Resource Center, and neighborhood advocates in opposing the expansion of transient lodging uses in the French Quarter. The City's Transient Lodging Study acknowledged the cumulative impacts that hotels, short-term rentals, and other transient accommodations can have on housing availability, neighborhood character, and quality of life. While portions of the VCC-1 and VCE districts remain under consideration for expanded transient lodging uses, preservationists remain concerned that additional tourist-oriented development threatens the residential fabric that has defined the Vieux Carré for generations. Louisiana Landmarks supports policies that preserve the French Quarter as a living historic neighborhood, not simply a destination for visitors.

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Photo courtesy of NOLA.com

Photo courtesy of A Closer Walk

US MINT

Louisiana Landmarks Society has raised concerns about a federally funded proposal to install permanent performance stages, landscaping, and other site alterations on the grounds of the Old U.S. Mint, a National Historic Landmark at the gateway to the French Quarter. Through requests for Section 106 review and formal consultation, Landmarks has argued that the project could adversely affect the historic character, integrity, and setting of one of New Orleans' most significant historic resources. Landmarks Society continues to advocate for a transparent review process and project alternatives that support public programming while preserving the historic landscape and architectural significance of the Old U.S. Mint.

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Alabo Street Wharf

Louisiana Landmarks Society has advocated for a comprehensive review of the proposed Alabo Street Wharf project, raising concerns about its impacts on the Holy Cross Historic District and surrounding historic resources. The organization has urged the Port of New Orleans and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a full Section 106 review, evaluate alternative sites, expand public engagement, and delay demolition activities until the federal historic preservation process is complete.

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Inner Harbor Navigational Canal Lock Expansion

Louisiana Landmarks Society has actively participated in the federal review of the proposed Inner Harbor Navigation Canal (IHNC) Lock Replacement Project, advocating for stronger protections for the Lower Ninth Ward, Bywater, and other nearby historic resources. While recognizing the need for modern maritime infrastructure, the Society has called for meaningful public engagement, adequate preservation funding, comprehensive mitigation measures, and a thorough evaluation of the project's long-term impacts on New Orleans' historic neighborhoods and communities.

The Josephine Event Center

Louisiana Landmarks Society has advocated for responsible redevelopment of the former Our Lady of Lourdes campus, now home to the Josephine Events Center. The organization opposed the demolition of the contributing historic school building, encouraged its adaptive reuse, and called for comprehensive traffic and parking solutions to address neighborhood impacts. As the project has evolved, Louisiana Landmarks has joined nearby residents in opposing a proposed live music venue permit, arguing that the surrounding residential neighborhood cannot support large-scale entertainment uses without meaningful safeguards, including a Community Benefit Agreement, traffic management, parking solutions, and noise mitigation.

Historic Streetcar Modernization 

Louisiana Landmarks Society is advocating for the preservation of the historic Perley Thomas streetcars as the Regional Transit Authority advances its Streetcar Modernization Study and All Stops Accessible Program. While strongly supporting full ADA accessibility, Louisiana Landmarks believes the iconic green streetcars can be thoughtfully retrofitted rather than replaced, preserving one of New Orleans' most recognizable historic landmarks while ensuring access for all riders.

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