NEW ORLEANS — This fall, the New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) is commemorating its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of protecting the city’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks.
Residents are invited to a special open house at the Main Library on Friday, September 18, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., for a historical presentation and to explore records from the Commission’s rich history.
In its 50 years, the Commission has overseen exterior repairs, demolitions, new construction, and signage installation across twelve “full control” districts, spanning from the Lower Garden District to Algiers Point. Buildings in four additional “partial control” districts require demolition approval.
The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 5992 establishing the HDLC at its June 24, 1976, regular meeting, in response to mounting community concern over demolitions along St. Charles Avenue. Councilmembers Frank Friedler, Jr. and Dr. A.L. Davis championed the measure, following months of studies and a five-hour hearing, where Councilmember Friedler noted the HDLC would be “a monument of the astuteness of the community.”
Indeed, under HDLC’s jurisdiction, thousands of houses and commercial structures have been maintained, with repairs that preserve the fabric of New Orleans’ historic neighborhoods. Just this year, the State Legislature voted to strengthen HDLC enforcement powers, authorizing increased fines for unpermitted demolitions.
Along with neighborhood oversight, the Commission has designated over 200 individual properties as local historic landmarks, extending protections to buildings including the Doullut Steamboat Houses (Holy Cross), Pitot House (Bayou St. John), Dew Drop Inn (Central City), Upstairs Lounge (French Quarter), and Carver Theater (Treme).
“Thanks to the foresight of civic leaders and concerned citizens, HDLC has proven to be an invaluable asset to New Orleans’ architectural and cultural heritage, working to maintain her unique charm and historic character,” said HDLC Executive Director Bryan Block. “This, in turn, has become a mainstay of the City’s economy as the driver of our robust tourism industry. Stewardship of these irreplaceable resources must not be taken for granted. HDLC appreciates and relies upon the support of our City leaders, preservation partners, and engaged public so that this critical work continues for decades to come.”
Director Block and Deputy Director Eleanor Burke oversee an expert staff of nine, who support both the HDLC and CBD-HDLC. Notably, over 30 volunteer appointees make up the HDLC and CBD-HDLC Commissions and their respective Architectural Review Committees. The hundreds of individuals who have served tirelessly in these roles over the past 50 years deserve full credit for protecting the architectural and cultural fabric of New Orleans.
More information is available at the HDLC website, and for a limited time at the New Orleans Public Library’s digital exhibit “Historic District Landmarks Commission: Celebrating 50 Years of Protecting New Orleans’ Architectural History.” The online exhibit features interactive maps, photographs, and archived reports.