Lincoln Beach Redevelopment – June 2025 Update

After more than a year of community engagement and planning, the City of New Orleans is entering the next phase of restoring Lincoln Beach. This newsletter highlights where we are in the process, what’s coming next, and what residents can expect.

Where We Are Now:

• Milestone Meeting #4 was held on May 6, 2025, marking the transition from planning to implementation.

• Over 10,000 engagement points from surveys, workshops, and meetings have helped shape the vision.

What’s Coming Next:

• June 27, 2025 – CMAR Contractor Selection Meeting at 9:30 AM, 1300 Perdido St, Suite 4W05.

• Summer 2025 – Design drawings and permit applications.

• December 2025 – Anticipated construction start (Phase 1).

• Early 2027 – Estimated completion of Phase 1 and beach reopening.

Phase 1 Highlights – “Givens” and Must-Haves:

Phase 1 focuses on safety, accessibility, and critical infrastructure:

• A pedestrian bridge with elevators and stairs

• Beach nourishment and shoreline restoration

• Parking lot and pedestrian crossing upgrades

• Restrooms, lifeguard station, and shaded seating

• Boardwalk rehabilitation and waterfront terraces

Funding Overview:

Current secured funding: $26.1 million
Total estimated project cost: $38–50 million

Funding sources include:

• City Bonds

• EPA & Restore Act Grants

• State Capitol Outlay

• Congressional Appropriations

*Funding Disclaimer:
All funding amounts listed are current estimates based on available resources as of June 2025. Project costs and funding sources are subject to change based on future budget allocations, permitting timelines, federal or state approvals, and private funding opportunities. The City will continue to pursue additional funding as needed to support future phases of the Lincoln Beach Redevelopment.

What the Community Said:

Key priorities based on survey and meeting feedback:

• Ample parking and ADA access

• Cultural and historical interpretation spaces

• Clean restrooms and shaded areas

• Safe and walkable access routes

• Activities for all ages (especially families and seniors)

Top-ranked program ideas:

• Large playground

• Food truck zone

• Elevated beachside restaurant

• History museum

• Fishing pier

Who’s Involved:

• City of New Orleans, Office of Resilience & Sustainability – Project manager

• Sasaki Associates – Lead architecture and design firm

• Digital Engineering – Local site and civil engineering team

• Community Partners – Local artists, historians, engineers, and engagement teams

Additional Notes:

• Concerns about overdevelopment and pedestrian safety have been considered. The bridge will also carry utilities to reduce flood risks.

• Future phases will depend on available funding but aim to expand amenities, programs, and parking.

Lincoln Beach Redevelopment Update – June 2025

We’re officially moving into the next chapter of the Lincoln Beach Redevelopment! After over a year of public input and planning, the City is preparing for Phase 1 construction, which prioritizes safe, accessible beach access and foundational infrastructure.

CMAR Contractor Selection Meeting:
June 27, 2025
9:30 AM
1300 Perdido Street, Suite 4W05

Phase 1 will include:

• A new pedestrian bridge with elevators

• Shoreline restoration and beach nourishment

• New parking lot, restrooms, and lifeguard station

• Shaded areas, cultural signage, and more

Construction is expected to begin December 2025, with an estimated beach reopening in early 2027.

This project is shaped by your voice — over 10,000 points of community feedback have guided these plans. Thank you for helping us build a beach that honors history, welcomes all, and lasts for generations.

Want to know more click here: Lincoln-Beach-June-Newsletter