2-15-26: Re: Zoning Docket 014/26 – Live Performance Venue Application
February 15, 2026
City Planning Commission
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Re: Zoning Docket 014/26 – Live Performance Venue Application
Dear Commission Members:
While Louisiana Landmarks Society supports the adaptive reuse of Our Lady of Lourdes Church at 2400 Napoleon Avenue, we have significant concerns regarding the application for a Live Performance Venue as proposed. A capacity of up to 1,000 guests pushes the limits of what the surrounding neighborhood can reasonably absorb. The area already faces documented challenges with rideshare lines, traffic congestion and parking from the wedding venue. A live music venue generating additional vehicle trips during peak evening and weekend hours risks compounding these pressures to the further detriment of residential quality of life.
Waiving on-site parking requirements may be warranted at this point given the historic structure and constraints created by yielding land for Trader Joe's construction next door. However, this exception makes it all the more essential that the developer proactively address parking and traffic impacts in coordination with the City and surrounding neighborhood, rather than leaving those burdens to residents.
We therefore strongly recommend that the developer work with the neighborhood to create a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) prior to allowing Live Performance Venue operations. Such an agreement should address, at minimum:
- Limits on operating hours and frequency of large-capacity events;
- Off-site parking solutions and shuttle or transit arrangements;
- Traffic management protocols during large events, including law enforcement coordination if necessary;
- Noise mitigation consistent with local ordinances and the residential character of the area; and
- A community liaison to receive and respond to neighborhood concerns on an ongoing basis.
A well-crafted CBA can help ensure this project becomes an asset rather than a source of ongoing conflict.
We respectfully request that the Commission condition any approval on meaningful neighborhood engagement and execution of a Community Benefit Agreement prior to permitting live venue operations.
Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra Stokes
Chair of Advocacy