07-04-2025
New Orleans to increase security for festival season
Expect to see more road closures and security measures for French Quarter Fest, Jazz Fest and Essence Fest this year, New Orleans leaders advised Monday.
Why it matters: Authorities want to prevent another terrorist attack like the one on Bourbon Street on New Year's Day.
The big picture: Most of Bourbon Street will be closed to vehicles this weekend for French Quarter Fest, authorities said at a press briefing Monday.
The side roads will be closed as well, plus there will be additional vehicle barricades and checkpoints throughout the Quarter.
South Peters Street will remain open, though.
Authorities also will monitor air quality for radiation and use drones and surveillance cameras to keep an eye on the crowds.
What's new: New Orleans police have a new festival uniform this year. Sadly, it's not as festive as it sounds, but authorities say it will help officers cope with the heat better.
The uniform is a polo-style shirt and lightweight pants that can zip off into shorts. They are similar to uniforms worn by officers on bikes, NOPD assistant superintendent Hans Ganthier says.
The shirt colors vary depending on the officer's department and rank.
Zoom in: Mayor LaToya Cantrell confirmed the city is continuing to address weaknesses identified by anti-terrorist consulting firm Teneo and "all of our partners," but she declined to say what they were.
