NEW ORLEANS, LA — Councilman Eugene Green welcomes the resumption and advancement of construction on the Southeast Louisiana Urban Flood Control Project (SELA), while emphasizing the importance of completing the long-awaited drainage improvements and minimizing impacts on surrounding residents.

SELA is a major federal flood-control initiative led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in partnership with local agencies to improve drainage and reduce flooding from heavy rainfall across New Orleans. The current $51.5 million phase of work along the Florida Avenue Canal continues drainage improvements between St. Ferdinand Street and Peoples Avenue and includes major underground construction beneath active railroad tracks.

Crews are now moving into 24-hour operations near Florida and Almonaster avenues to complete specialized work beneath the railroad tracks. This work will occur in phases, with the overall project currently expected to be completed in spring 2028.

“This is an important investment for the Desire and Florida communities, the Ninth Ward, Eighth Ward and Seventh Ward, and for the City as a whole,” said Councilman Green. “Improving our drainage and flood-control infrastructure is critical to protecting our neighborhoods and strengthening the resilience of New Orleans.”

The Florida Avenue portion of SELA has experienced significant delays over the years, and residents in the surrounding communities have lived with the impacts of construction for nearly a decade. Councilman Green said completing the project must remain a priority while recognizing the additional inconvenience that 24-hour operations may create.

“The communities directly impacted by this project have been extremely patient,” Green said. “It is important that we get this work completed, but it is equally important that residents are kept informed and that every reasonable effort is made to minimize noise, lighting, traffic and other impacts on their quality of life.”

The District D Office will continue working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans, Department of Public Works and community stakeholders to monitor construction, address concerns and keep residents informed as work progresses. “Ultimately, the focus remains on completing the project and delivering the improved drainage and flood protection that these communities and the City deserve,” Councilman Green said.