DDD UPDATES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
In March, Downtown Development District released a new Economic Development Strategy identifying both broad strategies and specific initiatives to improve the local economy Downtown. As a long-range planning document, this new strategy will be used to develop new programs, influence policy decisions, and ensure consistent progress toward establishing a strong urban core in the heart of the Crescent City.
The updated strategy is divided into six focus areas: (1) Business Recruitment, Retention, and Expansion, (2) Built Environment, (3) Infrastructure, (4) Workforce Development, (5) Advocacy and Funding, and (6) Canal Street Revitalization. It also incorporates public safety and equity issues into its outline for future Downtown development.
Since the implementation of this strategy, work to fulfill its initiatives has already taken place. In March, for example, the DDD Board of Commissioners awarded an Open Space Activation contract to Manning Architects. This contract will allow Manning to develop plans to reimagine and create use for presently underutilized green spaces Downtown. This project greatly speaks to the Economic Development Strategy #2, “Built Environment,” which calls for “the development of high-quality parks and open spaces that act as catalysts for neighborhood improvement and enhanced quality of life.”
With this exciting project already underway, DDD is excited to witness how this updated strategy can continue to shape organizational action and Downtown development in the years to come.
To read the full Economic Development Strategy, please visit this LINK. To keep up with progress and projects within the neighborhood, please visit our social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X) or the DDD website HERE.