T r a n s p o r t a t i o n   T a s k   F o r c e
New Co-chairs in the process of being appointed

The most regional of topics addressed by CBNO/MAC, transportation impacts economic development, job opportunities and the quality of life of our citizens.  Particulars that fall under the transportation rubric range from potholes to the Port, from the proposed Desire Streetcar line to the Louis Armstrong Airport.   Transportation issues, from improved cooperation and planning to systems upgrades, tend to be sweeping in nature.  Some of the solutions in this area are easily and affordably implemented; others will require tremendous multi-agency commitment and intensive efforts to procure funding.  One underlying factor impacting transportation and many other issues:  federal funding is increasingly focusing on regional initiatives.

The goals from the Transportation Task Force's Action Plan, as detailed in the Blueprint for a Better New Orleans, are as follows:

1.0 Ensuring long-term viability and competitiveness of the New Orleans International Airport and Lakefront Airport.

The City must develop the International Airport above all alternatives and take the issues affecting the airport head-on.  The City should take a leadership role regarding the completion of the new north-south runway by resolving governance, noise abatement and relocation issues related to its construction.  The City should develop a strategic plan for the airport to maximize its economic impact in generating jobs and secondary economic activity and investment.  It may also consider leveraging airport assets for maximum benefit, including but not limited to other regional transportation concessions.

Complete the new north-south runway by resolving governance, noise abatement and relocation issues related to its construction.

2.0 Functioning, viable regional transportation system.

The City cannot isolate itself from regional transportation issues.  Instead, it must become the leader in the creation of a truly effective regional transportation/transit system, providing companies and customers easy and reliable access to products, suppliers and employees.

Create a truly effective regional transportation/transit system.

3.0 Management and improvement of streets based upon an objective analysis of need street repairs.

Street repair and improvement must be a function of professional management and coordination, not politics.  The City should improve streets through aggressive management of all utilities and an objective, centralized system of prioritizing street improvements, beginning with the projects approved by voters in November 2000.Improve streets through aggressive management of all utilities and an objective system of prioritizing street repairs.

4.0 More efficient freight rail system, emphasizing safety and hazardous materials management.

The City must take a leadership role in improving freight rail efficiency through the New Orleans gateway, with a strong emphasis on safety.

Improve freight rail efficiency through the New Orleans gateway with a strong emphasis on safety.