Originally posted September 6th, 2013
Since 2007, the DDD has been a proponent of more aggressive code enforcement in order to elevate the maintenance standards of blighted and vacant Downtown buildings to encourage positive economic development and promote public safety. Our primary focus is ensuring that buildings are safe and secure in order to discourage other criminal activity that often follows areas where blight and vandalism are common.
Did you know that in August, the New Orleans City Council updated Chapter 26 of the municipal code to strengthen the minimum property standards for all properties and allow for the City and DDD to more effectively target commercial blight. From 2008 to 2011, the DDD identified 525 properties out of compliance and were able to bring approximately 50% of those properties up to standard. We encourage property owners to support our code enforcement efforts by voluntarily addressing issues such as graffiti and broken windows, and ensuring the property is safe, sanitary, and secure. Be Downtown Proud!