Oct 22, 2014
Baton Rouge - The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 6 together have determined that the Crescent Park in New Orleans is Ready for Reuse. A Ready for Reuse Determination is an acknowledgment that environmental conditions on the property are protective of human health and the environment based on its current and anticipated future use.
The Crescent Park is located on the Mississippi River levee between Saint Phillip Street and Mazant Street in New Orleans. The site is located in a historical commercial/light industrial/residential district in New Orleans along the river front. It is approximately 40 acres in size and essentially comprises old wharf and/or warehouse structures with associated rail road tracks, asphalt access road, and spurs that serviced the area. Much of the site is covered in concrete or asphalt and a concrete floodwall traverses the northern portion of the site and generally outlines the northern extent of the site. The city of New Orleans is the current owner of the property.
New Orleans was presented a letter of determination and a plaque for their effort to beautify the river front. They were received by Anthony Faciane, Neighborhood Stabilization Director and Shirley Smith, Director of Environmental Compliance, City of New Orleans Office of Community Development.
“Restoring property for enjoyment and use is one of the most satisfying aspects of environmental protection,” said Peggy Hatch, DEQ Secretary. “I commend the city of New Orleans for its successful efforts to restore Crescent Park.”
With this Ready for Reuse Determination, DEQ and EPA Region 6 agree that the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Redevelopment Corporation have successfully conducted investigation, remediation and risk management activities, and the environmental conditions at the property are protective of human health and the environment based on its current and anticipated future use as a community green space and commercial property.