[Blitzen]

Sorry to Change topics but any updates of the new Medical Center??

You can watch the progress of the 2 hospitals live on this link:
http://skanska.workzonecam.com/

Also, WDSU has a clip with updates on some projects going on around town:
http://www.wdsu.com/money/30830232/detail.html

[annie himself]

On another note, here is some new Convention Center Great Hall interior pictures/ info:
http://www.mccno.com/phire-content/assets/files/Great%20Hall%20-%20Two-Sided%20Brochure%20-%20Lo-Res.pdf

I like the LED stuff, but am not crazy about the randomly placed flower planters on the exterior. For some reason I expect public buildings to have more of a sense of symmetry and order than other contemporary buildings.

Looks like someone uses Windows 98 still.

[IceCream]

My understanding is that the $90 million is from the old Submerged Roads Program now called "pathways to progress" or some stupid politically happier sounding name and thus all federal $$$.

That money is only for damage caused to roads and sidewalks from flooding and related damage from heavy equipment using the roads after the flood.

And then the $30 million on top of that from the convention center is going to be fixing things that the Fed money can't be used for or as they say "dissatisfiers" or everything from covering graffitti, replacing street signs, planting trees in empty planters, sprucing up vacant properties,... you name it.

Basically that money would remove the "grunge" and make it more "disney-land-esque" but we sure as hell could use it even though I hate the thought of the Quarter being like a Disney bubble i dont' think that'll ever be the case.

As far as the $20 million the state rep wants to steal (in my mind) and use for Medicaid the Convention Center apparnetly has $20 million allotted for future expansion, but the state was quick to note that the STATE has $20 million in it's budget for the expansion, but that is on the "level 5" priority list or rather the absolute bottom....so that's kind of meaningless.

I'd rather the state leave the money for the Center to use as they see fit. In the case of the $30 million they realized they need to not only keep the center nice and clean but also the surrounding area, makes sense...but to raid their coffer and use it on Medicaid? Come on....

[IceCream]

Oh and on the permits:

200 Chartres is "Mena's Restaurant" - I've never been out of the assumption it's a tourist trap or at least heavily tourist travelled. Glad to see it expanding into what i think is a vacant space but any one ever been to it? Worth a shot?

800 Magazine is that property that Stirling is going to redevelop that we've posted about a little ways back, but glad to see it moving along. $3.5 mil is a pretty nice shot in the arm.

[tennis1400]

Oh and on the permits:


800 Magazine is that property that Stirling is going to redevelop that we've posted about a little ways back, but glad to see it moving along. $3.5 mil is a pretty nice shot in the arm.

Yeah this is the building on the corner of Magazine and Julia that is being returned to its original look in the 1880s. Landis construction is the contractor.

Permits:(not too much interesting today)

2372 ST CLAUDE AVE
SUITE 124
NEW ORLEANS LA 70117
CONVERT VACANT SHELL INTO A RETAIL SPACE(RED BUD DRESSMAKING) AS PER SKETCH.

710 CANAL ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70130
CONVERT VACANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING INTO A MIX USE BUILDING AS PER PLANS. 1ST FLOOR WILL BE USED AS RETAIL AND 2ND FLOOR WILL BE USED AS OFFICE SPACE. NO USE AND OCCUPANCY OF THE 3RD & 4TH FLOOR

6246 GENERAL DIAZ ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70124
NEW PARKING LOT FOR MIXED-OCCUPANCY (1-COMMERCIAL, 1-RESIDENTIAL) STRUCTURE AS PER SKETCH AND PUBLIC WORKS APPROVAL.

[ardecila]

710 CANAL ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70130
CONVERT VACANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING INTO A MIX USE BUILDING AS PER PLANS. 1ST FLOOR WILL BE USED AS RETAIL AND 2ND FLOOR WILL BE USED AS OFFICE SPACE. NO USE AND OCCUPANCY OF THE 3RD & 4TH FLOOR

This is really disappointing. These old buildings have massive windows and are great live/work or loft spaces.

It would really help these Canal Street properties if a developer came along willing to rent these upper floors from the building owners, renovate them, and sublet them to residential tenants.

[ardecila]

St Bernard approved the microbrewery. :D

[rcp11889]

This is really disappointing. These old buildings have massive windows and are great live/work or loft spaces.

It would really help these Canal Street properties if a developer came along willing to rent these upper floors from the building owners, renovate them, and sublet them to residential tenants.

Seriously, wouldn't the owners want to maximize their profits???

[tennis1400]

Seriously, wouldn't the owners want to maximize their profits???

More than likely this has to do with fire code.

[ardecila]

If you install a sprinkler system, you can get by with only one set of fire stairs. Still, these buildings are insanely deep. Unless you're doing one unit per floor, you're gonna need to cut light wells.

[SlidellWx]

I know this isn't related to a specific development of any type, but it's important for continued investment in the area. The Census Bureau released the 2011 estimates today, and it shows New Orleans as the 9th fastest growing county in the nation from 2010 to 2011 The metro area ranked 35th in growth.

The New Orleans Metro Area grew 2.0% from 1,167,764 to 1,191,089. The city of New Orleans population increased from 343,829 to 360,740 representing a growth rate of 4.9%. Very impressive rates of growth for the area...as evidenced by all of the construction activity going on right now.

Here is a link to the information...

http://www.census.gov/newsroom/relea...s_webinar.html

Now back to the all of the exciting things happening around town.

[Chris from N.O.]

I know this isn't related to a specific development of any type, but it's important for continued investment in the area. The Census Bureau released the 2011 estimates today, and it shows New Orleans as the 9th fastest growing county in the nation from 2010 to 2011 The metro area ranked 35th in growth.

The New Orleans Metro Area grew 2.0% from 1,167,764 to 1,191,089. The city of New Orleans population increased from 343,829 to 360,740 representing a growth rate of 4.9%. Very impressive rates of growth for the area...as evidenced by all of the construction activity going on right now.

Here is a link to the information...

http://www.census.gov/newsroom/relea...s_webinar.html

Now back to the all of the exciting things happening around town.


Great news... if we can keep those rates of growth up we'll truly be one of the hot cities of the 2010's. Or the 10's. Or whatever this decade is.

[IceCream]

Report says real estate is going to make a comeback in NOLA:

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/new_orleans_housing_market_wil.html

I was talking to someone i know yesterday who's very involved in real estate locally who told me the exact opposite. He said most of the banks have been hoarding their foreclosures so as to not flood the market all at once, but that they plan on dropping a bunch of them on the market as summer approaches since it's usually the good sales season. He expects that to force prices back down.

As someone that hopes to buy something over the next year or two..I'm all for it .

I'd like to learn more about buying a foreclosed home or from the Sherriff's auction. Any good resources to learn more?

[tennis1400]

Report says real estate is going to make a comeback in NOLA:

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/new_orleans_housing_market_wil.html

I was talking to someone i know yesterday who's very involved in real estate locally who told me the exact opposite. He said most of the banks have been hoarding their foreclosures so as to not flood the market all at once, but that they plan on dropping a bunch of them on the market as summer approaches since it's usually the good sales season. He expects that to force prices back down.

As someone that hopes to buy something over the next year or two..I'm all for it .

I'd like to learn more about buying a foreclosed home or from the Sherriff's auction. Any good resources to learn more?

Im not sure I believe that about the foreclosures, but part of the cleansing of the system is getting through the foreclosures. New Orleans and Louisiana as a whole never had a lot of them because our job market was more stable and real estate here never inflated to ridiculous prices. No one bought a million dollar home here for a million dollars with zero down. Yeah Im looking at you California!

[Chris from N.O.]

Report says real estate is going to make a comeback in NOLA:

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/new_orleans_housing_market_wil.html

I was talking to someone i know yesterday who's very involved in real estate locally who told me the exact opposite. He said most of the banks have been hoarding their foreclosures so as to not flood the market all at once, but that they plan on dropping a bunch of them on the market as summer approaches since it's usually the good sales season. He expects that to force prices back down.

As someone that hopes to buy something over the next year or two..I'm all for it .

I'd like to learn more about buying a foreclosed home or from the Sherriff's auction. Any good resources to learn more?

(on the sheriff's sale) It's tougher than you might think. The one time I went, almost all of them went to the seizing creditor. They will bid up to the amount of indebtedness, so the only way to really get lucky is to find a property that a. there isn't that much owed on and b. nobody else is interested in.

I bought my condo at foreclosure last year. It was a FannieMae property, the website for those is homepath.com. You can also specify "reo" on latter-blum.com and it will give you a list of bank-owned properties.

As far as the actual purchasing goes, it's still the same, you have to have a closing, sign a mortgage or transfer funds, etc.

One thing I learned the hard way is that OP assessor will not automatically assess the property at what you paid for it. They just keep the assessment the same, which means they left my assessment in Mid-City at about $150/ sf :hell:

[IceCream]

Good info! Thanks! I assume the "Claim Amount" listed on the properties on the sherrif's site is the amount owed. I've only seen a few that aren't in a sh*thole part of town or aren't in totaly disrepair that have a "good" price (claim amount) on them. Thus i assume because they're cheap and in a good part of town, etc that they prob get bid up quickly.

[rcp11889]

I know this isn't related to a specific development of any type, but it's important for continued investment in the area. The Census Bureau released the 2011 estimates today, and it shows New Orleans as the 9th fastest growing county in the nation from 2010 to 2011 The metro area ranked 35th in growth.

The New Orleans Metro Area grew 2.0% from 1,167,764 to 1,191,089. The city of New Orleans population increased from 343,829 to 360,740 representing a growth rate of 4.9%. Very impressive rates of growth for the area...as evidenced by all of the construction activity going on right now.

Here is a link to the information...

http://www.census.gov/newsroom/relea...s_webinar.html

Now back to the all of the exciting things happening around town.


This is absolutely fantastic! Here's to hoping these trends continue!

[tennis1400]

City Planning Commission Hearing Notices for April 24th:

Some Highlights:
ZONING DOCKET 43/12 –Request by DOBY PROPERTIES, LLC for a Zoning
Change from an HMR-1 Historic Marigny/Tremé Residential District to an HMC-2
Historic Marigny/Tremé Commercial District and a Conditional Use to permit an
amusement place, on Square 199, Lot 1 or A, and B or B-1, in the Second Municipal
District, bounded by North Claiborne and Ursulines Avenue, North Robertson and
Governor Nicholls Streets. The municipal addresses are 1601 Ursulines Avenue and
1113 North Robertson Street. (ZBM D-13/PD 4)



ZONING DOCKET 44/12 – Request by JOSEPH J. PACIERA, JOSEPH C.
PACIERA and TONI ANN PACIERA for a Conditional Use to permit the sale of
alcoholic beverages for consumption on-premises at a standard restaurant in a B-1A
Neighborhood Business District, on Square 73, Lot 9 or B and 1, in the Fourth
Municipal District, bounded by Jackson Avenue, Annunciation, Chippewa and
Josephine Streets. The municipal address is 739 Jackson Avenue. (ZBM C-15/PD 2)


ZONING DOCKET 46/12 – Request by 4 Z’S VENTURES, LLC for a Conditional
Use to permit a retail establishment greater than 10,000 square feet in floor area in a
C-1A General Commercial District, on Square 238, Lot 1 or X, or Lots Pt. 32A, 2, 1,
6, 5 and Pt. of an undesignated lot, in the First Municipal District, bounded by the
Pontchartrain Expressway, Carondelet, Clio, and Baronne Streets. The municipal
address is 1117 Carondelet Street. (ZBM C-14/PD 2)

ZONING DOCKET 47/12 – Request by VILMA NORTON for a Conditional Use
to permit a fast food restaurant in a B-1 Neighborhood Business District, on Square
98, Lot 5, in the Seventh Municipal District, bounded by Maple, Burthe, Adams and
Hillary Streets. The municipal address is 7621 Maple Street. (ZBM A-13/PD 3)

[IceCream]

Sweet!!!

1117 Carondelet is the old Fleet Tire Service building that's been vacant for a long time! Who knows what they want to do with it, but as long as it's not vacant i'm mostly good for it.

And 739 Jackson is Finger Lickin Wings. That's the wing place that the rapper owns and i've actually wanted to check it out....

[Urban Legend]

I know this isn't related to a specific development of any type, but it's important for continued investment in the area. The Census Bureau released the 2011 estimates today, and it shows New Orleans as the 9th fastest growing county in the nation from 2010 to 2011 The metro area ranked 35th in growth.

The New Orleans Metro Area grew 2.0% from 1,167,764 to 1,191,089. The city of New Orleans population increased from 343,829 to 360,740 representing a growth rate of 4.9%. Very impressive rates of growth for the area...as evidenced by all of the construction activity going on right now.

Here is a link to the information...

http://www.census.gov/newsroom/relea...s_webinar.html

Now back to the all of the exciting things happening around town.

That is great information, but the link is not working and says the page has been removed.

[Blitzen]

The RPC put out an RFP for improvements to Leake Avenue, which runs along the river Uptown between Jefferson Parish and Audubon Park. The improvements would be between the parish line and Broadway Avenue.

http://www.norpc.org/assets/pdf-documents/requests_for_proposals/Scope_Leake_Ave.pdf

A wide range of project goals will be discussed with the PMC (project management committee) and community, including shifting the roadway closer to the NOPB railroad, widening the existing sidewalk on the neighborhood side of Leake Avenue, adding a sidewalk or bike/ped facility on the railroad side of Leake Avenue, linear park access elements, landscaping, parking facilities (roadside or off-road), pedestrian path lighting, and various beautification elements: i.e., decorative sidewalk and lighting, benches, water features, other enhancements, and visual screening of the railroad tracks.

Great news if this actually happens!

[Blitzen]

I'd be thrilled if Leake Avenue someday connected to Tchoupitoulas Street, behind the Zoo. That would reduce traffic on Magazine, and help traffic flow generally around the city much better, especially around Mardi Gras time.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

On another note, Lake Pontchartrain Lighthouse Update:

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/555938_10150641545260248_51791045247_9781037_944290082_n.jpg
(Photo taken from Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation's Facebook page)

[Chris from N.O.]

Found another link for the info on population: http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/news_conferences/2012-04-03_popestimates_webinar.html

On nola.com it says that St. Bernard was the second-fastest growing and Orleans the 9th. As much as I'd like to think this represents "real" growth, which would be more sustainable, the St. Bernard stat in particular suggests that this is still more people moving back home, and a lot of those possibly came from elsewhere in the Metro; St. Tammany only grew two percent. I'm certainly not opposed to people going back home but it's been seven years now and I just don't think there's that much of that type of growth left.

[Chris from N.O.]

I'd be thrilled if Leake Avenue someday connected to Tchoupitoulas Street, behind the Zoo. That would reduce traffic on Magazine, and help traffic flow generally around the city much better, especially ...

How would you suggest they go about doing that?

[Blitzen]

How would you suggest they go about doing that?

http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/9094/tchoup.jpg

[UPT]

Found another link for the info on population: http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/news_conferences/2012-04-03_popestimates_webinar.html

On nola.com it says that St. Bernard was the second-fastest growing and Orleans the 9th. As much as I'd like to think this represents "real" growth, which would be more sustainable, the St. Bernard stat in particular suggests that this is still more people moving back home, and a lot of those possibly came from elsewhere in the Metro; St. Tammany only grew two percent. I'm certainly not opposed to people going back home but it's been seven years now and I just don't think there's that much of that type of growth left.

While we may still have people moving back home, this may be sustainable. Eight of the 20 fastest growing MSAs are in Texas and 31 of the 50 are in warm weather states.

If we can continue to build on our economic momentum, I think the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas can be regulars on this list. We had about 1.36 million people pre-Katrina. If we continue to grow at 2% per year, we would hit that in 2018. If we grow by 1% per year, we would hit it in 2024.

Ultimately, this starts with our economy and political environment, is supported by our warm weather and culture, and is only possible if we have good storm protection.

[ardecila]

It would be way cheaper just to upgrade the park roadway between Magazine and Tchoup that runs past the stables. Get rid of that stupid bus turnaround and extend the Tchoup bus (and Magazine bus) to a transfer point at St Charles/Carrollton.

Put in a stoplight where the park roadway meets Magazine. The new road should be two lanes wide with a buffered bike lane. Parallel parking along that road could allow Audubon to reduce the size of parking lots elsewhere and create more, better green space.

[SlidellWx]

@ Chris from N.O. Thanks for catching the new census link. Have no idea why they got rid of the other page after one day.

[IceCream]

Here are some small updates from my drive down Carondelet this morning:

1. 845(ish) Carondelet - The building next to Global Green and across from Stephen's Garage that is supposed to be a restaurant and gym now has "caution" tape blocking off the sidewalk. Hopefully they'll get started on removing all the debris soon (collapsed building behind the facade). Here's the googlemaps link:

http://g.co/maps/kh73x - Note the swinging pool palace next door...Umm get me the hookup!

2. 701 Carondelet - What I refer to as the old school book depository (across from Ditcharo's) looks like they're almost done sheet rocking. Can't wait til they pressure wash the exterior!

3. Drury Inn - They removed the large mound of dirt that had accumulated during the drilling of the test pile. Also saw an 18 wheeler delivering what looked to be a bunch of rebar. I assume this is for the static piles or whatever you called them..can't remember (drilling hole, insert concrete. as opposed to driving piles).

[contractortiger]

I assume this is for the static piles or whatever you called them..can't remember (drilling hole, insert concrete. as opposed to driving piles)

Probably drill shafts.

[NolaWave]

The Iberia Bank on the corner of St. Charles and Louisiana looks like it is about to open. The building fronts St. Charles in the middle of the lot. Can't figure out what they will put on the big open space on the corner though, it looks like it will just be grass.

[tennis1400]

Construction has really picked up on the Civic Theatre(i know cause it wakes me up every morning lol). I should be able to tour it sometime this month so will certainly take pictures of the inside.

[tennis1400]

The Iberia Bank on the corner of St. Charles and Louisiana looks like it is about to open. The building fronts St. Charles in the middle of the lot. Can't figure out what they will put on the big open space on the corner though, it looks like it will just be grass.

I know I saw something about a sign for them on the City Planning agenda.

[NOLADevelopmentFan]

GNORealEstateNews.com (http://gnorealestatenews.com) has a photo of a new sign (http://gnorealestatenews.com/2012/04/10/what-would-you-like-on-the-corner-of-common-and-loyola/) at Wiznia's Saratoga Development. Apparently they're using Neighborland to ask "What businesses do you want here?”

They've received 143 ideas so far. I'm not sure how they'll end up using it, but I think it's a pretty neat idea for building buzz.

[tennis1400]

Heres a cool new concept in the Maritime Building.

http://downtownnola.com/news/detail/14628

http://downtownnola.com/uploads/large/559506_401472619863207_384708938206242_1601334_75959097_n-1333052786.jpg

http://downtownnola.com/uploads/large/471875_399617963382006_384708938206242_1594814_1183111508_o-1333052732.jpg

[NolaWave]

Construction has really picked up on the Civic Theatre(i know cause it wakes me up every morning lol). I should be able to tour it sometime this month so will certainly take pictures of the inside.

Do you know what kind of events they are planning to use it for?

[tennis1400]

The Civic Theatre is planning to host local and national acts. Ranging from corporate parties to djs, comedy shows and fashion shows.

New Building in Metairie
Metairie Manor IV
Metairie, LA $10,000,000 4-19-2012
3:00 PM Harold Reed
This project is to build a new 5 story, 82 unit apartment building consisting of a pile supported concrete structure, post tension concrete floor slabs, brick veneer, chilled water air conditioning, paving, landscaping, and fencing.


Renovation -
735 Bourbon
7 Addenda New Orleans, LA $2,000,000 4-10-2012
2:00 PM Marjean Gohd
Renovation of existing building to include demolition and construction on new Courtyard roofing and associated components; demolition, construction and alterations of the balconies and exterior stairs, exterior wall cladding, HVAC, plumbing, electrical and lighting, associated interior finishes and new interior and exterior millwork.

[WesternSon]

Cool news about the Civic, but what about the corner stores? They haven't really worked on those stores since before the SEC championship. Through the windows you can see that the floors have been dug out and not replaced. Seems like they are waiting on build out plans?

Hope this isn't a bad sign. Also, not extremely pleased with the color or finishes of the building. Green! eck. but that is personal taste.

I guess I just assumed that everyone thought the correct repaint color for the warehouse district and downtown was a cool, sharp grey. : )

[ardecila]

2. 701 Carondelet - What I refer to as the old school book depository (across from Ditcharo's) looks like they're almost done sheet rocking. Can't wait til they pressure wash the exterior!

sorry for sheet rocking

3. Drury Inn - They removed the large mound of dirt that had accumulated during the drilling of the test pile. Also saw an 18 wheeler delivering what looked to be a bunch of rebar. I assume this is for the static piles or whatever you called them..can't remember (drilling hole, insert concrete. as opposed to driving piles).

caissons.

[ardecila]

Cool news about the Civic, but what about the corner stores? They haven't really worked on those stores since before the SEC championship. Through the windows you can see that the floors have been dug out and not replaced. Seems like they are waiting on build out plans?

Hope this isn't a bad sign. Also, not extremely pleased with the color or finishes of the building. Green! eck. but that is personal taste.

I guess I just assumed that everyone thought the correct repaint color for the warehouse district and downtown was a cool, sharp grey. : )

I think they look awesome. I'm undecided about the paint color but the new storefronts are effin' awesome compared to the terrible old dilapidated plywood ones.

Old:
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2660/3708708496_b1e2c64c1f_z.jpg
source (http://www.flickr.com/photos/karenapricot/3708708496/in/photostream/)

[tennis1400]

Residents are starting to move into apartments in 900 and I know there is a liquor license application on the corner unit. I know whats supposed to go in there but until something is signed nothing is certain.

The build out for the retail tenants may not nescessarily even use Gibbs construction. Depends on the lease terms I guess.

Some new renderings for 425 Notre Dame:


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7220/6919372272_d3956dd53f_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7134/7065455465_ef8118ecb2_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5195/6919378322_031c355b9c_b.jpg

Sorry for the way I copied it from Paint!!!

[ardecila]

Looks awesome! It seems like architects here generally do a good job designing traditional buildings, which is good consolation considering we don't get too much modernism.

BTW, THAT'S how you tie balconies onto a historic facade (even a faux-historic one). Jim MacPhaille, take note.

I don't like all those huge ventilation grates facing the sidewalk, though. Can't they create another retail space in there?

[tennis1400]

Looks awesome! It seems like architects here generally do a good job designing traditional buildings, which is good consolation considering we don't get too much modernism.

BTW, THAT'S how you tie balconies onto a historic facade (even a faux-historic one). Jim MacPhaille, take note.

I don't like all those huge ventilation grates facing the sidewalk, though. Can't they create another retail space in there?

I bet that will change at the next meeting cause yes I agree they could be changed or improved. Remember this is the Notre Dame side. Girod will have plenty of commercial on the bottom of it.

[IceCream]

I bet that will change at the next meeting cause yes I agree they could be changed or improved. Remember this is the Notre Dame side. Girod will have plenty of commercial on the bottom of it.

I have a feeling the large grate on the far right is a swing or lift gate for access to the parking beneath. But yeah, agreed it'd be nice to get rid of the other 2-3, but they have to have it somewhere...so hopefully they'll find a good spot.

Also, happened to drive by earlier today and saw they had shut down the sidewalk in front of the Girod side with construction fencing.

On the Julia@ Magazine building they have already removed the interior foundation and seem to be making real progress.

[IceCream]

WOOOO they have now officially started construction (next week, whatever....)

8 floors, 2 of which are parking, 10,000 feet of retail space on the 3rd floor (why the 3rd?), a ballroom, and 60 new suites...cool.

http://neworleanscitybusiness.com/thenewsroom/2012/04/10/drury-inn-to-build-60-new-suites/

----------

Jazz & Heritage Foundation Building on Rampart:

My subscription to CityBusiness expired...may renew it, but the little blurb is all i basically need. I thought the old funeral home was offices, but it's actually been vacant and now they're converting it to a jazz school. Awesome!

http://neworleanscitybusiness.com/blog/2012/04/10/foundation-to-convert-funeral-home-into-jazz-school/

[Austinlee]

Im coming to NO in August for the first time ever for my cousins batchelor party. Im excited, not for drinking or gambling at all but to walk around and snap pics of the city and architecture! Typical SSPO nerd.... ;) Will any locals care to walk around with me one morning on like a saturday and show me where to photograph?

I'll be in the city with 5 guys total but i think they are more into getting wasted and going to Harrahs. I'd rather just tour around one day. I'll be in town for like 3 days: Fri-Mon'ish.

We are staying at the Marriott ( http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/msyla-new-orleans-marriott/ )now instead of Harrahs which is fine for me cause im not a gambler at all. It's a dumb way to spend your money. That being said, can anyone tell me where i can get some good blow to do lines off of a hookers ass? Now that is money well spent.

[Reverend_Cletus]

You, sir, just cost me a new keyboard!

Son of a bitch... I was drinking water while reading this in my office. It came out my mouth and nose frying my keyboard. Oh well. I guess it was worth the line and hooker comment. I just wasn't expecting that. Co-workers came to see why I was choking.

Fun times!

[tennis1400]

Im coming to NO in August for the first time ever for my cousins batchelor party. Im excited, not for drinking or gambling at all but to walk around and snap pics of the city and architecture! Typical SSPO nerd.... ;) Will any locals care to walk around with me one morning on like a saturday and show me where to photograph?

I'll be in the city with 5 guys total but i think they are more into getting wasted and going to Harrahs. I'd rather just tour around one day. I'll be in town for like 3 days: Fri-Mon'ish.

Ask again when the time is closer. Im sure one or two of us could meet you for a little bit or at the least direct you where to go. Also I think the Marriot is nicer than Harrahs hotel. Their room service is horrible!

[tennis1400]

----------

Jazz & Heritage Foundation Building on Rampart:

My subscription to CityBusiness expired...may renew it, but the little blurb is all i basically need. I thought the old funeral home was offices, but it's actually been vacant and now they're converting it to a jazz school. Awesome!

http://neworleanscitybusiness.com/blog/2012/04/10/foundation-to-convert-funeral-home-into-jazz-school/

Heres a link to the plans for the Jazz School.
http://cityofno.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&clip_id=1153&meta_id=146115

[Blitzen]

1. GE decided to rent 60,000 sq. feet from Place St. Charles for their new IT office. http://www.wwl.com/GE-Capital-leases-space-for-new-IT-center/12806226

2. Vote for the Mercedes-Benz Superdome as the arena with the prettiest lights (yes, you have to vote for the other categories too) : http://livedesignonline.com/excellenceawards/

3. An interesting article on how urban sprawl has slowed down in the US and may be reversing: http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/story/2012-04-05/sprawl-census-urban/54007292/1?csp=fbfanpage

[IceCream]

1. GE decided to rent 60,000 sq. feet from Place St. Charles for their new IT office. http://www.wwl.com/GE-Capital-leases-space-for-new-IT-center/12806226



They're probably going to take over the floors that Capital One gave up when they laid off a few hunderd people. That means they'll be in the lower tower riding the elevator with me! Great news...except now they'll be 300 more people riding the elevator with me.......

What is the square footage per floor in place st charles? 60,000 hsa to be 2-4 floors i geuss

[jjslonaker]

Glad to see another building on Rampart being renovated! Has anyone heard any info regarding Google?

[tennis1400]

Heres some of the designwork for the glass cube at 309 Magazine Street.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5311/6922411262_5efbe07436_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/6922420422_0a746462ba_b.jpg


Heres a picture next to the Country Inn and Suites:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5031/6922476534_c1a483987d_b.jpg

[tennis1400]

3. An interesting article on how urban sprawl has slowed down in the US and may be reversing: http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/story/2012-04-05/sprawl-census-urban/54007292/1?csp=fbfanpage

I always hate to overgeneralize and delcare sprawl dead but I do think really far flung suburbs are a thing of the past and esecpially so in areas that were hit hard by the housing bust. One of the interesting things watch house hunters now is that most of the time the buyers are choosing the less appealing house/or smaller one mainly because of location. No one wants to be too far away anymore.

[Uptowner]

So what exactly is going inside of the glass cube. Am I wrong to currently think an Apple Store would veeeeery unlikely.

[ardecila]

^^ Maybe not. Apple was reportedly looking at the former Borders on St. Charles. A CBD location would be better for tourist business as well as city residents.

On the other hand this seems like a bad spot for an Apple Store... no high-end retail in surrounding buildings or blocks, relatively little foot traffic on that stretch of Magazine, etc.

[tennis1400]

This is definitely not for Apple but is being designed by the same firm that does Apples stores. From what I understand its just someone building their company some really trendy corporate office. Still really neat infill and shows the desire to be in New Orleans is truly increasing if these little parcels are being utilized for something more than surface parking.
Heres the ARC Agenda description of the building:

A. 309 Magazine Street: Beverly Chasse, owner/applicant. Proposal for the construction of a one story structure behind existing three story façade.

Havent really been checking for new permits lately but will update as I can:

New Permits:

4213 MAGAZINE ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70115
Project Description:
CONVERT VACANT COMMERCIAL BUILDONG TO A RESTURANT PER PLANS
Job Value($):
$680,000.00
BTW lol whats a "BUILDONG"?

703 CARONDELET ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70130
ADD 3RD FLOOR AS A 1300 SF PENTHOUSE APARTMENT TO EXISTING MULTIFAMILY BUILDING PER PLANS AND HDLC.

622 CONTI ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70130
CONVERT VACANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING INTO A MIX USE BIUILDING BY DOING A TENANT BUILD OUT OF THE 4TH FLOOR INTO AN APARTMENT AS PER PLANS. NO EXTERIOR WORK UNDER THIS PERMIT.
Job Value($):
$450,000.00

[ardecila]

4123 Magazine is the former Ebony Square Cultural Center...

[Austinlee]

You, sir, just cost me a new keyboard!

Son of a bitch... I was drinking water while reading this in my office. It came out my mouth and nose frying my keyboard. Oh well. I guess it was worth the line and hooker comment. I just wasn't expecting that. Co-workers came to see why I was choking.

Fun times!

Wow, reverend; I apologize! Can't believe I actually fried your keyboard for you. Shit! :shrug::cool:

[sguil1]

Work on this LSU administrative building started. Tulane avenue directly across from LSU Academic Hospital site.

http://www.mathesbrierre.com/projects/images/foundation/foundation-1.jpg

http://www.mathesbrierre.com/projects/images/foundation/foundation-2.jpg

http://www.mathesbrierre.com/projects/images/foundation/foundation-4.jpg

http://www.mathesbrierre.com/projects/images/foundation/foundation-3.jpg

[NOLAmike]

^^ Maybe not. Apple was reportedly looking at the former Borders on St. Charles. A CBD location would be better for tourist business as well as city residents.

I spoke with a representative from Mellow Mushroom and she told me they were looking at moving into the Borders on St. Charles in the near future. Also, I was at the BioInnovation Center yesterday for a networking event and noticed they have a new sandwich shop/coffee lounge moving in called The Honey Loaf Lounge. I talked to the owners and said its their first shop, it looks pretty cool. I took pictures, how can I upload them?

[tennis1400]

I spoke with a representative from Mellow Mushroom and she told me they were looking at moving into the Borders on St. Charles in the near future. Also, I was at the BioInnovation Center yesterday for a networking event and noticed they have a new sandwich shop/coffee lounge moving in called The Honey Loaf Lounge. I talked to the owners and said its their first shop, it looks pretty cool. I took pictures, how can I upload them?

Im not sure what you took pictures on Nola Mike but once you upload pictures on to your computer use flickr to load them online. You can register for Flickr through facebook or you can load your pictures directly to facebook and copy their web address from there. I personally use flickr cause its easier to edit them on there.

[ardecila]

I would kill for Mellow Mushroom calzones in NOLA....

[NOLADevelopmentFan]

Corporate Realty just posted that NOLA Brewing is expanding their current facility at 3001 Tchoupitoulas Street. (http://corp-realty.com/2012/04/12/nola-brewing-to-expand-facilities/)

Great to see this local company doing well.

[tennis1400]

Heard some good news from a friend about the re-development of the Carver Theatre. Most of the money for the renewal is lined up.

http://neworleanscitybusiness.com/files//2010/10/entertainment-carver-0376_.jpg

[n3rdw0p]

Good to hear, I just rode my bike by there and the top part of the sign is flopped over.

[Chris from N.O.]

I can't get this multi-quote function to work.. can anybody explain it to me?

Anyway, on Mellow Mushroom... will Fresh Market not take up the whole space?

And on the Carver theatre- what is it planned to become, and when was that picture taken? I drove by there within the last week and it seemed to be in really poor condition.

[Chris from N.O.]

I spoke with a representative from Mellow Mushroom and she told me they were looking at moving into the Borders on St. Charles in the near future. Also, I was at the BioInnovation Center yesterday for a networking event and noticed they have a new sandwich shop/coffee lounge moving in called The Honey Loaf Lounge. I talked to the owners and said its their first shop, it looks pretty cool. I took pictures, how can I upload them?

Heard some good news from a friend about the re-development of the Carver Theatre. Most of the money for the renewal is lined up.

http://neworleanscitybusiness.com/files//2010/10/entertainment-carver-0376_.jpg

Nevermind. Got it.

[tennis1400]

they are re straightening sign as we speak!

[ardecila]

Anyway, on Mellow Mushroom... will Fresh Market not take up the whole space?

I very much doubt that Fresh Market will use the second floor, and they can't remove it to create a double-height space without huge expense.

My guess is that the second floor will be split between Fresh Market stockroom and a restaurant space. The restaurant space would have some kind of grand entry lobby with a big staircase and elevator.

[Chris from N.O.]

they are re straightening sign as we speak!

A lot's changed in a week then.
I very much doubt that Fresh Market will use the second floor, and they can't remove it to create a double-height space without huge expense.

My guess is that the second floor will be split between Fresh Market stockroom and a restaurant space. The restaurant space would have some kind of grand entry lobby with a big staircase and elevator.

That makes sense. I have no experience with these "new stores" such as Trader Joe's, fresh market, etc. so I don't know how big they usually are.


Thanks for the responses.

[tennis1400]

I doubt mellow mushroom would locate on second floor, but if you remember the Borders had a Seattles Best Coffee inside so maybe thats where the Mellow Mushroom would be.

[jjslonaker]

Good news, look like Tom Benson is going to be the new owner of the Hornets! http://www.nola.com/hornets/index.ssf/2012/04/nba_board_of_governors_makes_i.html

[Urban Legend]

they are re straightening sign as we speak!

Not sure where you got that information, but I just drove by there 20 minutes ago and the sign was still crooked and damaged with no work crew in sight.

[Dangerbigdogg]

Good news, look like Tom Benson is going to be the new owner of the Hornets! http://www.nola.com/hornets/index.ssf/2012/04/nba_board_of_governors_makes_i.html
Hopefully he can help with naming rights for the arena...Google Arena sounds nice!

[Chris from N.O.]

Hopefully he can help with naming rights for the arena...Google Arena sounds nice!

I think this news is better and better the more I think about it. We may finally have a winning team, this makes the downtown area a sports powerhouse all under one man, and since he owns Fox 8 they may be able to show all the games on 8.2 or whatever (this is for me, as I have Directv-no CST). But I think the best part of it is now he's really committed to being here- he can't move either team without taking a financial hit on the other side. Maybe a moot point as he's 85 years old but Rita or whoever will probably inherit both franchises.:cheers:

[rcp11889]

Looks like Mellow Mushroom is moving to Oak Street. Will be interesting to see this kind of place on a neighborhood retail street.

http://uptownmessenger.com/2012/04/mellow-mushroom-pizza-restaurant-hopes-for-october-opening-on-oak/

[Chris from N.O.]

Looks like Mellow Mushroom is moving to Oak Street. Will be interesting to see this kind of place on a neighborhood retail street.

http://uptownmessenger.com/2012/04/mellow-mushroom-pizza-restaurant-hopes-for-october-opening-on-oak/

Good news. I ate there once in BR, it seemed decent.

Short blurb about the Hibernia building:

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/hibernia_bank_redevelopment_mo.html

Says that should be done by Sept.

[ardecila]

Carrollton doesn't have any pizza joints except for Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, which is IMO overpriced and mediocre. Can't wait for Mellow Mushroom to open up.

[tennis1400]

Not sure where you got that information, but I just drove by there 20 minutes ago and the sign was still crooked and damaged with no work crew in sight.

I apologize for saying as we speak. I meant in the next few weeks.

[MNT]

Looks like Mellow Mushroom is moving to Oak Street. Will be interesting to see this kind of place on a neighborhood retail street.[/url]

Mellow Mushroom's location in downtown Savannah is probably a good model here; they've done a good job of integrating into a historic building in an urban area. Same in Auburn. The suburban standalone locations are kind of weird for those of us who spent our college years on the stuff!

[IceCream]

Here's a pic of CVS at Napoleon @ Claiborne. Sorry took it from the car while on the move, but it gets the point across. Turned out nicely in my opinion:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7083947891_0948410d36_b.jpg

And here's a picture of the crane and start of construction on the expansion and renovations to Monroe Hall (Loyola) and isn't there going to be a whole new building there too?

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7127/7083946157_0a4b66a42d_b.jpg

[dgpatel]

2014 NBA All Star Game (http://www.nola.com/hornets/index.ssf/2012/04/nba_to_award_2014_all-star_gam.html) will be awarded to NOLA today! This continues the string of major events in NOLA, and the positive national exposure! Plus the article mentions the two-off-season renovations to the Arena for which "Architectural teams are still working on design plans for Arena modifications, aimed at helping the Hornets to generate additional revenues on their own to alleviate the state's burden of providing financial subsidies."

Plus, several articles mention Tom Benson wanting to rename/rebrand the Hornets to give them a more local name.

[broadmoor]

So I'm really glad the CVS at Napoleon and Claiborne is there now, especially because it's right by my house, but I feel like they could have done it a bit better. They pulled a Walgreen's and essentially ignored the sidewalk. To access the building from Napoleon as a pedestrian, you pretty much have to walk through the driveway because of that fencing. And it kind of says to me, "we're a really nice establishment in a crappy place, so we're protecting ourselves from you." (Or maybe I'm just paranoid and read too much into it) They also installed these bright fluorescent lights at the top that shine out from the building. It would look okay if it weren't right at the entrance to a neighborhood and other buildings nearby weren't much more subdued.

I'll end my rant now. It's pretty good-looking construction, especially for a big-chain pharmacy, so I'm not gonna go on a NIMBY rampage or anything. I'm just glad something was finally done with that corner.

[tennis1400]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7127/7083946157_0a4b66a42d_b.jpg

Gosh Monroe is one ugly building. Are they renovating Monroe or tearing it down?

[Blitzen]

Gosh Monroe is one ugly building. Are they renovating Monroe or tearing it down?

They are completely gutting and redoing it, as well as expanding three floors upward!!

Pictures can be found here: http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/monroe-hall-renovations-and-additions

_________________________________________

Also, City Hall is asking New Orleans residents for their views on where dog parks and dog runs should be opened in the city. An online survey is available at www.surveymonkey.com/s/2VZC2L7.

http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/04/new_orleans_seeking_residents.html

[Nolacat157]

They are completely gutting and redoing it, as well as expanding three floors upward!!

Pictures can be found here: http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/monroe-hall-renovations-and-additions[/URL]

Wow that is an amazing upgrade to Monroe. Has work on the Tom Benson Jesuit Center began yet?

[tennis1400]

They are completely gutting and redoing it, as well as expanding three floors upward!!

Pictures can be found here: http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/monroe-hall-renovations-and-additions



http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/images/0-monroe-hall-project.jpg


Much Improved! Seems like an extremely complicated renovation.

http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/images/0-jesuit-center-project-image.jpg


6300 TCHOUPITOULAS ST
NEW ORLEANS LA 70118
Job Value($):
$500,000.00
Project Description:
REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS TO AVENGER PLAYGROUND AS PER PLANS.

[Blitzen]

I was just browsing the architect's website and came across the new drawings for the Phillis Wheatley Elementary School in the Treme. After all the bit@#!ng I did when they tore down the old, modernist school, I take it all back. The new school looks amazing! :worship:

http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/phillis-wheatley-elementary

http://www.hollyandsmith.com/portfolio/images/birdseye-1.jpg

[elwin514]

2014 NBA All Star Game (http://www.nola.com/hornets/index.ssf/2012/04/nba_to_award_2014_all-star_gam.html) will be awarded to NOLA today! This continues the string of major events in NOLA, and the positive national exposure! Plus the article mentions the two-off-season renovations to the Arena for which "Architectural teams are still working on design plans for Arena modifications, aimed at helping the Hornets to generate additional revenues on their own to alleviate the state's burden of providing financial subsidies."

Plus, several articles mention Tom Benson wanting to rename/rebrand the Hornets to give them a more local name.


Great news for NOLA. Super Bowl in 2013, Womens Final Fours in 2013, and now the NBA All-Star Game in 2014. New Orleans is on a roll.

[rschin2]

Holly & Smith is a great firm. I really like their work. That will be a nice school...

[ardecila]

Opposition grows to the Tulane football stadium:

http://saveourneighborhoods.me/

Personally I'm in favor so long as they put in a stoplight at Ben Weiner/Calhoun. I've personally seen pedestrians and cyclists get struck by cars there - many students need to cross Claiborne to get to the businesses across the way.

[IceCream]

Benson wants to change the name of the Hornets to something more NOLA-ish and also wants to build a practice facility.

I'm down for both! I had no idea they practiced at the Alario Center...that sucks.

Bring them back in city limits, i hope!

No word on locations other than they are currently "scouting multiple locations in the metro area."

http://www.wwltv.com/sports/basketball/NBA-to-announce-All-Star-game-for-New-Orleans-147580715.html

[IceCream]

AWESOME NEWS!!!!

I heard they were going to consider the idea of removing the structure awhile back, but now they actually are going to remove it!

That's great! Better flow of water into the Bayou, returning it to a more natural state, better flow into City Park lagoons, and the return of fish!!!

Sweet!! This has no flood implications since there is flood control gates at the end of the canal.

http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2012/04/meeting_this_afternoon_on_remo.html

[Blitzen]

AWESOME NEWS!!!!

I heard they were going to consider the idea of removing the structure awhile back, but now they actually are going to remove it!

That's great! Better flow of water into the Bayou, returning it to a more natural state, better flow into City Park lagoons, and the return of fish!!!

Sweet!! This has no flood implications since there is flood control gates at the end of the canal.

http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2012/04/meeting_this_afternoon_on_remo.html

This is great news!! Here is a video about what they are specifically going to do: http://www.abc26.com/news/newswithatwist/wgno-changes-in-store-for-bayou-st-john-20120409,0,137786.story.

In addition to removing the locks, they will dredge underneath the bridge @ Lakeshore Drive. If you read the Bayou St. John masterplan at City Park's website, this is like their dream come true. :cheers:

My dream come true, would be to use the dredge material to place a couple of small manmade islands in the widest part of the bayou with a couple trees and tall grasses. It would be an oasis for the birds and a fertile fish breeding grounds.

[IceCream]

That's great that they're going to dredge under lakeshore drive!

I rode my bike across that bridge once, looked down, and the water only appeared to be 1 foot or so deep. I know I was looking straight down, but it looked very, very shallow.

Do they usually leave the flood control stucture open that's up on the lakefront? I'd love to have ingress/egress on my kayak!!

[Blitzen]

That's great that they're going to dredge under lakeshore drive!

I rode my bike across that bridge once, looked down, and the water only appeared to be 1 foot or so deep. I know I was looking straight down, but it looked very, very shallow.

Do they usually leave the flood control stucture open that's up on the lakefront? I'd love to have ingress/egress on my kayak!!

It is only a foot or two deep. Over time, the lake has pushed sediment higher and higher in that narrow passageway, so the dredging is sorely needed to improve waterflow.

As far as the floodgates, they have remained closed since practically the day they were built. Because the old flood control structure remained in place blocking the flow of water, it was always a moot point to open them. Now the contention is between the Eastbank Flood Control Authorty, the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board, and City Park over which entity will control the gates.

City Park wants them open 24/7 except for hurricanes or a severe drought (because the higher salt water in the lake isn't good for the bayou). The other two agencies don't want to be in charge of being responsible of opening/closing the gates, but they also don't want to put the city's safety in the hands of City Park officials.

So someone go to the meeting tonight and see what they say. I'd go but unfortunately I'm out of town.

[tennis1400]

Benson wants to change the name of the Hornets to something more NOLA-ish and also wants to build a practice facility.

I'm down for both! I had no idea they practiced at the Alario Center...that sucks.

Bring them back in city limits, i hope!

No word on locations other than they are currently "scouting multiple locations in the metro area."

http://www.wwltv.com/sports/basketball/NBA-to-announce-All-Star-game-for-New-Orleans-147580715.html

There is enough space on the Saints campus in Metairie wouldnt be surprised if it was there.

[ardecila]

Maybe I'm confused, but how does allowing lake water into Bayou St John bring back fish and vegetation? The lake is already dead because its water is too salty for many native species.

It would be nice to create a few more Demourelles Islands though. The city could sell off the real estate and use the proceeds to fund parks or wetland restoration.

In other news, I finally got out to Pontchartrain Beach... Which is great, but it needs to be at least three times that big! The scary crumbling jetty needs to be rebuilt too...

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lsnrtnpM8c1qb4cjeo1_500.gif

[Blitzen]

Maybe I'm confused, but how does allowing lake water into Bayou St John bring back fish and vegetation? The lake is already dead because its water is too salty for many native species

Long story short: The lake is naturally brackish (mostly fresh, a litle saliniy), and native plants, fish, crabs, and clams reproduce when this is the case (then birds indirectly, because they love eating all of those). A big part of the lake has too much salt water AND not enough oxygen in the water because of the man-made Industrial Canal, so there is a dead zone right there, otherwise on any given day it's pretty good.

The lake has the perfect mixture of water/salt to kill off invasive fresh-water species living in the bayou (that you threw into it from your fishtank), as well as help put more oxygen into the bayou water (because the lake is choppy it generally has more oxygen than a stagnant bayou), and the native fish/plants that need a little salt and oxygen to breed will begin to thrive. Many of these native species of fish can't reproduce in totally fresh water, so they have to be restocked yearly.

Here's the masterplan if you have time to read it: http://neworleanscitypark.com/downloads/BayouPlan.pdf