Revitalizing New Orleans: Bayou Phoenix Set to Transform Abandoned Six Flags Park
Nearly two decades after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans is still recovering from its aftermath. An abandoned Six Flags in New Orleans East has served as a reminder of the Louisiana city’s struggle.
Renovation Initiated by Bayou Phoenix
The former theme park had been open for five years before the 2005 hurricane devastated its grounds, leaving an eyesore in its place and a city then too resource-poor to make a fix. Hopeful businessman and developer Troy Henry and project manager Vincent Williams are looking to change that through Bayou Phoenix, a local developer group handpicked by Mayor LaToya Cantrell to bring the park back to life.
Challenges Faced During the Revitalization Process
After listening to three proposed layouts, which include plans for a transportation center paired with a water park, an urban farm, and a renovated water park with hotels and retail, Cantrell settled on the latter.
Developers at Bayou Phoenix explained that the endeavor’s difficulty was much more layered than simply signing a lease, a step that’s taken New Orleans decades. First, the estimated cost of demolition fluctuates wildly between hundreds of thousands of dollars to tens of millions, according to Scott Hedlund, the executive counsel for TKTMJ, Henry’s construction partner. This is because no one is certain of the condition of the 227-acre park’s foundations and whether or not they’re usable.
Complex Demolition Process and Future Plans
Before over 90 buildings and rides can come down, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must also inspect the site to determine what percentage qualifies as natural wetlands. This further complicates demolition as developers are unsure of how long the process could take.
While the road ahead is long, plans for demolition are expected to begin in late summer, with the next steps for a complete renovation to follow. Bayou Phoenix’s proposed million “master plan” includes a water park, two hotels, movie studios, and sports complexes like ballfields. The project is estimated to cost between $500 million and nearly $1 billion, with government sources expected to contribute at least $100 million.
In conclusion, despite the challenges faced, Bayou Phoenix remains optimistic about the transformation of the former New Orleans Six Flags park. The developers are committed to revitalizing the area and restoring it to its former glory with a visionary approach and determination.