As the redevelopment of Lincoln Beach moves forward, New Orleans residents are actively sharing their ideas and aspirations for the historic site. The planning team, led by the Denver-based design firm Sasaki Inc., held a series of public input meetings last week at the New Orleans Opportunity Center to gather community feedback on the ambitious plans for the beach’s revitalization.
Lincoln Beach, once a vibrant recreational spot designated for Black residents during segregation, has been closed since the 1960s and has suffered from decades of neglect. However, with $24 million in funding secured under Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s administration, the site could potentially reopen as early as next year. The redevelopment is being funded through a combination of local bond funds, federal grants, and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reimbursements.
A Vision for the Future
The public meetings offered a glimpse into the exciting possibilities for Lincoln Beach. Some of the proposed features include an elevated waterfront restaurant, an amphitheater, a children’s playground, a convenience grocery store, and even a rooftop pool. Planners are also considering expanding the beach beyond its current shoreline and adding amenities such as a history museum, a skate park, and various other recreational facilities.
During the meetings, attendees were divided into small groups to discuss their preferences. Some suggested the addition of a large event space for weddings or concerts, which could serve as a significant revenue generator for the site.
“We’re not asking people to choose one concept over the other,” said Cheryn Robles, a city environmental administrator managing the project. “We’re asking them to choose what elements they like from each one so we can Frankenstein them together for a final plan.”
Incorporating History and Modern Design
The proposed designs for Lincoln Beach respect the site’s historical significance while introducing modern amenities. The concepts include over 500 parking spaces and an elevated pedestrian access bridge over Hayne Boulevard and train tracks. New structures would be built on existing infrastructure to maintain a connection to the past. For instance, a proposed centralized bathroom and café area would link to an existing concrete walkway, and a new plaza with dining options would be constructed on the foundation of the old Carver House Restaurant.
Lincoln Beach was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, a designation that opens the door to new grants and funding opportunities for renovation and maintenance.
Community Input and Alternative Ideas
While many are excited about the redevelopment, some community members have expressed different ideas for the site. Former state representative John Bagneris suggested that a waterpark might be more beneficial than a beach, citing the hot climate and the potential appeal to tourists. He pointed to Blue Bayou in Baton Rouge as an example of a successful waterpark that attracts out-of-town visitors.
The planning team also discussed the possibility of a phased reopening, allowing parts of the beach to open to the public while construction continues in other areas. Basic improvements, such as adding signage and structures to slow down traffic on Hayne Boulevard, would be necessary before any reopening could occur.
Continuing the Conversation
New Orleans residents who were unable to attend the meetings still have the opportunity to weigh in on the future of Lincoln Beach. The city has made an online survey available, inviting the public to share their visions for the historic site.
As the planning process progresses, the input from the community will play a crucial role in shaping a final master plan that honors the past while embracing the future. With the collective effort of residents, planners, and city officials, Lincoln Beach has the potential to once again become a cherished recreational space for both locals and visitors.
