NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans today announced the start of Phase I construction for the historic Morris F.X. Jeff Municipal Auditorium, located at 1201 St. Peter St. in Louis Armstrong Park. This critical investment represents the first step toward stabilizing and redeveloping one of the City’s most iconic cultural landmarks, as the City observes the week leading up to the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
“Today we stand together on historic ground, honoring the legacy of our ancestors in Congo Square and Tremé while looking forward to the future of Armstrong Park and the Municipal Auditorium,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “As we observe the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, this groundbreaking represents more than construction it’s about resilience and collaboration. Through our partnership with the Save Our Soul Coalition, we’ve unlocked $38 million in FEMA funds to stabilize and redevelop this landmark, beginning with an $8.2 million roof replacement. This is what it means to be a City of Yes listening to our community, working with our partners, and keeping the progress going so New Orleans continues to stand strong for the next 20 years and beyond.”
The $43.4 million project, funded through FEMA, bond funds, and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, will focus on stabilizing the building’s roof, exterior envelope, and interior environment to prepare for future redevelopment in partnership with the Save Our Soul (S.O.S.) Coalition.
Project Details
- Construction Start: September 1, 2025
- Estimated Completion: March 30, 2026 (Phase I)
- Architects: VergesRome APC and NANO Architects
- Contractor: Rycars Construction, LLC
The auditorium, designed by Favrot and Livaudais Architects and built in the early 1930s, served as a 5,000-seat venue for Mardi Gras balls, concerts, graduations, and community events. It has been out of service since Hurricane Katrina caused severe damage in 2005.
Scope of Work Includes:
- Expedited roof stabilization and asbestos remediation
- Full roof removal and replacement, including roof deck repairs and lightning protection
- Exterior masonry and fenestration rehabilitation
- Environmental abatement of lead paint and mold
- Interior stabilization to protect historic elements
This work is part of the Cantrell Administration’s $87.5 million investment in District C capital projects, reaffirming the City’s commitment to cultural preservation and economic development.