The DDD utilizes the following services to keep Downtown clean:

Sidewalk Sweeping and Cleaning

Through a contract with Block by Block, the DDD keeps Downtown streets clean. Traditional pan and broom, as well as automated vacuum machines, are used for litter abatement. Pressure-washing trucks spray the sidewalks for a deeper cleaning. A dedicated graffiti team removes graffiti from public spaces. Block by Block crews also paint trash cans and light poles when necessary. Additionally, Block by Block will provide support services and temporary cans for special events and other high traffic times.

The DDD encourages Downtown property and business owners to take responsibility for the sidewalk in front of their property. To see the City standard for sidewalk cleaning, click here or the link to the right.

Tree Replacement and Maintenance

In 2007, the DDD planted 400 trees in sidewalks in all of Downtown's neighborhoods. A variety of trees (all approved by the Department of Parks and Parkways), have been planted to add shade and character to Downtown.

Landscape Beautification

The Downtown Development District shares responsibility for the maintenance and beautification of Downtown's neutral grounds and parks with the City's Department of Parks and Parkways. The DDD has contracted with the Plant Gallery to provide enhancements to the following locations:

• 200 and 300 block of N. and S. Diamond
• 900 block of Tchoupitoulas
• 900 block of Howard Avenue
• 1000 block of Oretha Castle Haley
• O'Keefe Ramp Triange (O'Keefe and Howard)
• 1000 and 1100 blocks of Girod St.
• Duncan Plaza

Trash Receptacle Replacement

In 2008, the DDD will purchase and install replacement trash receptacles for Downtown. A total of 275 new cans are to be placed Downtown.

Graffiti Removal

The DDD has enacted a graffiti removal plan to target graffiti on public and private property downtown. To learn more, click here or the link to the right.

Special Event Support

The DDD provides extra staffing as well as temporary trash receptacles during special events or other high-traffic times. For example, during the Sugar Bowl and BCS games, additional receptacles were placed along the prime corridors to mitigate the impact of 80,000 fans walking to the Superdome.

For more information on the DDD's cleaning programs, contact John Roussell (jroussell [at] neworleansdowntown.com), Public Space Operations Manager, at (504) 561-8927.