Unite communities with green parks
Vacant lots and green spaces became pocket parks with wetlands, detention basins, and bio-retention cells, linking historically divided neighborhoods.
Markets
Priorities
Transforming neighborhoods with resilient stormwater systems and complete corridor design
Nearly half of New Orleans sits below sea level, making it vulnerable to flooding from modest rainfall. After Hurricane Katrina, the city sought to improve stormwater management and enhance neighborhoods. CDM Smith partnered with the Redevelopment Authority to merge infrastructure upgrades, green stormwater solutions, and transportation improvements, creating safer, greener, and more connected communities.
Integrate green and gray stormwater systems
$50M in drainage upgrades combined large conveyance facilities with decentralized green systems to slow, capture, and manage stormwater.
Transform corridors for safer mobility
Baronne Street now features an elevated bike track, bioswales, subsurface storage, and ADA-compliant crosswalks to improve drainage, safety, and movement.
Transform corridors for safer mobility
Underground storage tanks were added to parks and playgrounds while turf and equipment were restored, supporting seniors, children, and families.
CDM Smith and the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority transformed stormwater challenges into community-focused improvements. Pocket parks, bioswales, subsurface storage, and complete corridor designs reduce flooding and enhance mobility. “Every New Orleanian knows you can’t have standing water because mosquitoes will breed,” said Jessica Watts, CDM Smith civil engineer. Filter boxes and green infrastructure ensure stormwater drains within 48 hours, improving safety, recreation, and quality of life while building long-term resiliency.