NEW ORLEANS, LA — On Monday, July 20, representatives of several agencies combined to conduct an operation that immediately reduced blight in the Desire community. The combined operation resulted in the immediate removal of 10 vehicles, with eight more vehicles pending removal. Representatives from the Department of Public Works fanned out through the community to affix violation notices on multiple inoperable vehicles and vehicles that were blocking the public right-of-way. In addition, the Department of Code Enforcement remediated several overgrown lots to allow for public sidewalk access. Particular attention was given to the area of Johnny Jackson Blvd. and Carver Rams Way, where inoperable vehicles were parked on random properties within the community.

Residents, businesses, and students in the Desire and 9th Ward communities have long advocated for increased investment and attention to quality-of-life concerns. Recent public and private investments in the area have supported community facilities, housing, education, public safety, and other neighborhood improvements. Monday's operation builds on those efforts by addressing blighted properties, abandoned vehicles, and other conditions that impact the quality of life for residents. Continued collaboration between government agencies, community stakeholders, and the private sector will be critical to supporting the Desire community's continued growth.

“The work of several City agencies to help rid the Desire community in District D of blighted lots and abandoned vehicles is appreciated,” Councilmember Green said. “Residents have waited long enough for these eyesores to be addressed, and I commend the New Orleans Police Department's District Quality of Life Officers, Parking Enforcement, the Department of Public Works, Code Enforcement, Safety & Permits, the Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office, and the New Orleans City Attorney's Office for their great work in helping improve this area.”

Residents can report abandoned vehicles, blighted properties, overgrown lots, and other quality of life concerns by contacting NOLA 311.