Learn more about the vision behind Plan Vieux Carré at www.FrenchQuarterPlan.com.

The French Quarter was designed in 1721, long before automobiles, yet today its streets are dominated by motor vehicles, creating unsafe conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and New Orleans residents. High-speed traffic, reckless driving, and car-related crime endanger the very character of this historic district.

We, the undersigned, call on city leaders to implement Plan Vieux Carré (FrenchQuarterPlan.com) to reclaim the French Quarter for people. This plan will:

• Restrict non-essential vehicle access within the Quarter, allowing entry only for residents, deliveries, sanitation, emergency services, and permitted workers.

   

• Divide the French Quarter into three distinct zones—Blue, White, and Red—mirroring the colors of the French flag. Each zone will have tailored vehicle access policies and be bounded as follows:

  Blue Zone: Toulouse, Decatur/North Peters, Canale, North Rampart 
  White Zone: Toulouse, Decatur, Dumaine, North Rampart 
  Red Zone: Dumaine, North Rampart, Esplanade, Decatur/North Peters

   

• Designate only a limited number of streets for full motor vehicle access to preserve essential circulation while prioritizing pedestrian safety. These streets include:

  Perimeter access: Decatur/North Peters, Canal, North Rampart, and Esplanade
  Interior access routes: Toulouse Street (riverbound) and Dumaine Street (lakebound)

• Install retractable bollards at the 24 entry points of the 3 zones to enforce access restrictions.
• Expand pedestrian-only areas, including extended hours for Bourbon Street closures and enhanced walkability on Royal Street.
• Introduce traffic-calming measures, including expanded bike lanes, reduced vehicle lanes, parking, and additional traffic signals at key intersections (Dumaine @ North Rampart and Esplanade @ North Peters).
• Create designated taxi and ride-share stands to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety.
• Potentially rezone parking lots for residential and commercial use, reducing unnecessary vehicle storage in the Quarter.
• Prioritize bicycle and pedicab infrastructure to provide safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation options.

Cities around the world have successfully implemented similar plans, leading to safer streets, thriving businesses, and improved quality of life. It’s time for New Orleans to join them.

By signing this petition, you support a French Quarter designed for people, not just cars. Let’s make the Vieux Carré safer, cleaner, and more vibrant for all.

Sign today and demand action!