New Orleans Moon Walk

Throughout its history, much of the New Orleans riverfront was industry and commerce; wharves and docking areas made the riverfront inaccessible for citizens. In 1976 the original Moonwalk, named for Mayor “Moon” Landrieu, was constructed along the Mississippi riverfront and was the first location along the river’s edge to be given back to the community. We designed and built the Moon Walk improvements in real-time while concurrently developing the New Orleans Riverfront Master Plan. We enhanced public safety, sustainability, and resilience across the project.

RoleUrban Design Lead, City LiaisonImpactSustainable enhancements along the park to minimize urban heat island effect and assist with stormwater managementLocationNew Orleans, LA

New Orleans Riverfront, Moonwalk, Chad Cramer, Urban Design

I worked with the Army Corps of Engineers to put large shade trees in New Orleans’ primary French Quarter levee. As you might imagine, the answer was initially a hard “no,” but we found a solution. We also removed pedestrian/vehicle conflicts at a primary connection to Jackson Square and improved links to the adjacent Riverfront Streetcar and other city infrastructure.

We installed upgraded seat walls and riverfront steps that bring you to the water. We used plants to help with stormwater management along the river edge and the adjacent parking areas. We installed enhanced walking surfaces and new lighting that minimizes light pollution. May your riverfront walk be cool and shady.