New Orleans East residents can expect brighter streets as Mayor Helena Moreno launches the "Lights On" initiative, a public safety effort focused on improving lighting in underserved areas. Officials, including Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Michael Harrison and NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick, joined Moreno at Huntington Park Apartments to highlight the completed upgrades near Crowder and the I-10 Service Road.
Mayor Moreno emphasized her commitment, saying that New Orleans East has been ignored for too long and that this will no longer be the case. The initiative takes a coordinated approach to improve safety and infrastructure in the community.
According to the City of New Orleans news release, District Attorney Jason Williams linked better lighting to lower crime rates, saying, "When lights are broken and infrastructure is broken, it’s easier for criminals to commit crimes." City officials chose this location using crime data to guide the improvements. NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick added, "This is just the beginning of better things to come. We know how many good people live here, and we’re going to be your partner."
Deputy CAO of Infrastructure Stephen Nelson discussed the city’s budgeting strategy, noting that with a major budget shortfall, every repair must be carefully planned. The city is using its Infrastructure Coordination Council to prioritize repairs for maximum impact while keeping costs low.
Councilmember Jason Hughes told residents that the initiative reflects a new, action-oriented approach in District E, noting that Mayor Moreno is following through on her promises. The effort includes partnerships with contractors like All Star Electric for immediate repairs and plans to hire electricians to handle ongoing maintenance.
The city’s Infrastructure Coordination Council will oversee projects early in Mayor Moreno’s term, aiming to streamline work and reduce redundant street repairs. Residents can report broken or malfunctioning streetlights through NOLA311 or the city’s website. The mayor’s office says the administration is committed to transparency and timely delivery of essential infrastructure projects.
