NEW ORLEANS - Councilmember Jason Williams is encouraging residents to take final preparedness measures as Hurricane Laura approaches landfall. 

"As a city that has been through uncertain times before, we know that the best thing we can do now is being prepared. Though recent reports show that New Orleans is not in the storm's direct path, we cannot let our guards down until Laura fully passes. We pray for our neighbors to the west," said Councilmember Williams. "Be sure to follow @nolaready for updates, and I'll continue to share information and resources on my pages as well. Stay safe everyone!"

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See below for the latest updates:

• Voluntary evacuation for areas outside levee protection, including Venetian Isles, Lake Catherine and Irish Bayou, are still in effect.
• Parking restrictions have been lifted on neutral grounds and sidewalks.
• Regularly-scheduled trash and recycling collection will occur.
• RTA service is operating on the Saturday schedule. Ferry Service will remain suspended until further notice. See here for additional details.

Watch Councilmember Williams' latest video with a message for residents across New Orleans here. 

For additional information and storm preparedness tips, visit ready.nola.gov and text LAURA to 888777.

As always, residents with any questions or concerns can call Councilmember Williams' office at (504) 658-1070 and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Media Contact:

Keith D. Lampkin

Office of Jason R. Williams, Council-At-Large

(504) 758-8913

kdlampkin@nola.gov