New Orleans is set to witness the birth of a new greenspace in Central City, courtesy of District 'B' Councilmember and Quality of Life Committee Chair Lesli Harris. During a committee meeting scheduled for Monday, Harris will unveil plans for a park dedicated to the late Barbara Lacen-Keller, a revered community figure known as the "Mayor of Central City." In a statement obtained by Council News, the initiative follows a site visit to the Keller Community Center, where an underused city-owned plot was earmarked for redevelopment.
With funds already secured in the city budget, this project aims to morph the chosen site into a lively community greenspace. Despite an affectionate term, the official name for the park remains undecided until further discussions with the family and city officials are held. "This meeting marks a major milestone in making this vision a reality," announced by Councilmember Harris, addressing the upcoming session that will signify a turning point in the park’s development, as mentioned in Council News.
Barbara Lacen-Keller is remembered by her community for her leadership and dedication. As the planning for the park progresses, her family and friends have been invited to honor the legacy left behind. Their attendance will underscore the personal and communal impact of the late "Mayor of Central City." Councilmember Harris is poised to submit a motion to the City Planning Commission to begin the park's official naming process, which includes a separate public meeting intended for the renaming deliberations.
The City’s plans, which will be discussed in an open meeting, invites public and media scrutiny, offering a chance for local voices to be heard in the shaping of their urban landscape. Harnessing the promise of civic engagement, "Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the City’s plans to enhance green infrastructure and community spaces," Councilmember Harris explained amid the largely anticipated event, whose details are outlined in the recent Council News release.
