I was really excited to read the article marking the 10th anniversary of the Lafitte Greenway. The Lafitte Greenway is not only one of the 10 best things to happen to New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina, but it also represents the most important win for walkability in the city since then and probably beyond. It’s been invaluable in not only creating diverse, vibrant public spaces along the corridor but also in connecting the French Quarter to the Lakefront (well, almost). It also confirms the value of leadership that prioritizes community outreach, engagement and feedback.
While the article mentions a few of those who were instrumental in making this a reality, other key figures also deserve recognition. This includes Sophie Harris Vorhoff, a tireless advocate for the project and the first executive director of the Friends of the Lafitte Greenway, working alongside Nellie Catzen. It’s also important to acknowledge the vital support by then-District A city council member Susan Guidry, whose bold leadership included spending the necessary political capital to fight for this project — especially in light of the reported pushback from some of my fellow Lakeview neighbors who fretted that it would create a “pathway for crime.” (Spoiler alert: Nope.)
We also should remember vital partners like Dan Favre, whose leadership at Bike Easy coincided with that of Sophie and Nellie. His advocacy for more walkable and bike-friendly infrastructure further helped connect the dots of the broader value. Similarly, Geoff Coats was able to shepherd the bike-share service Blue Bikes through two different mayoral administrations and multiple efforts to restructure partnerships. Now Blue Bikes is headquartered along the Greenway and serves riders who are frequent users of the path.
Here’s hoping our leadership, whether through advocacy or governmental work, will continue to ensure that the Lafitte Greenway and other public spaces realize their full potential.
DAVID LEE SIMMONS