NEW ORLEANS - On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, the Transportation Committee held a meeting where key representatives from transportation services provided updates on various projects throughout the city. The Committee received updates on multiple projects from the Regional Transit Authority (RTA), including an update on passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as a presentation on Bike Easy’s Safer St. Claude Campaign and the Daylighting Campaign.
Regional Transit Authority Gives Updates on Key Projects
The RTA provided updates on community engagement and several capital project developments. RTA shared information about the Opportunity Pass Pilot Program, which allows passengers aged 16 to 24 to receive free mobile ride passes.
RTA has several key projects underway, including the Algiers Ferry Terminal Renovation, which is scheduled to begin construction in September 2025. RTA is also in the design and planning phases of a new Downtown Transit Center. Additionally, RTA plans to expand its transit hub at six locations, with the design phase set to begin at the end of 2025. To view the full presentation, click here.
New Orleans to Baton Rouge Passenger Rail Service Updates
Darrell Saizan, Senior Consultant with Saizan and Associates, spoke to Committee Chair Green about the passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Saizan discussed the importance of the rail service in providing synergy and efficiency for travelers in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The rail service can promote tourism, travel, reduce interstate traffic, and aid in evacuation efforts during hurricane season.
While Saizan was unable to provide a timeline for the project during the meeting, he mentioned that approval should be granted after completing Phase 1, allowing the project to move on to Phase 2, which the Federal Government has agreed to fund. The Senior Consultant said he would be able to offer more specific details about the project as Phase 2 of the Corridor Identification Program begins. While the Mr. Saizan did not have a visual presentation, viewers can see the full update through the City Council YouTube page.
Louis Armstrong International Airport Representatives Give Presentation
Representatives from Louis Armstrong International Airport provided updates on air service activity over the past year, as well as progress on the airport’s Master Plan, which outlines future development plans and budgets. Over the past year, several airlines have begun seasonal service out of Louis Armstrong, including Alaska Airlines, Avelo Airlines, and Breeze Airways.
Regarding the airport’s Master Plan, Phase 1 includes plans for a new roadway system, a new west garage, a new west terminal, an east concourse expansion, a west concourse expansion, and more than 15 new gates, totaling 50 gates. Phase 1 also includes plans for an express shuttle connector road that links the north terminal campus to the south campus. This shuttle connector road would also help reduce public roadway traffic and make public transit easier. To view the full presentation, click here.
Bike Easy’s Safer St. Claude Campaign and the Daylighting Campaign
Members of the non-profit organization Bike Easy gave a presentation on the Safer St. Claude Campaign and the Daylighting Campaign. The Safer St. Claude Campaign aims to make St. Claude Avenue, one of the most popular corridors connecting the Ninth Ward, safer for cyclists and pedestrians. Bike Easy highlighted safety concerns such as bike lane blockages, cracked pavement, and illegal parking on the neutral ground along the corridor.
The non-profit organization called for safety measures, such as converting traditional bike lanes into separated bike lanes and installing flex posts to strengthen no-parking zones. Bike Easy representatives also called for intersection daylighting to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. To view Bike Easy's full presentation, click here.