NEW ORLEANS - During today's City Council meeting, District “B” Councilmember Jay H. Banks approved two land use motions that represent significant steps in the right direction toward green infrastructure and affordable homeownership. Zoning Docket 26/21 is the first to require electric vehicle charging stations for a gas station in Mid-City, and the development at 1721 St. Andrew Street in Central City (Zoning Docket 53/21) is a building block that will lead to future affordable homeownership opportunities.

After listening to the concerns of Mid-City residents regarding the lack of green infrastructure on Tulane Avenue, Councilmember Banks worked to address the issues with the application for a new gas station at 2701 Tulane Avenue. This resulted in provisions that require the installation of a green roof on the new canopy, cisterns that will maintain the heightened landscaping, at least one electric vehicle charging station, recycling bins, and added litter abatement requirements.  

Councilmember Banks continues to be a dedicated proponent for affordable housing by pushing for more significant opportunities that keep New Orleanians in their neighborhoods. The St. Andrew Townhomes will add 16 units to a desirable block in Central City and will surround a historic live oak tree. Through the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance that Councilmember Banks worked to pass and continued inter-departmental collaboration, two of these homes will ultimately be available to homebuyers earning up to 80% of the local area median income. His office will continue to work with the City Planning Commission, Safety and Permits, the Mayor’s Office of Community Development, and many housing advocates to further expand, codify, and promote these wealth-building opportunities for our residents. 

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Media Contact:

Jenna D. Burke

Chief of Staff

Councilmember Jay H. Banks, District B

(504) 658-1021

Jenna.Burke@nola.gov