New Orleans is developing a comprehensive housing plan to prevent displacement, encourage sustainable design, improve quality of life, and promote fair lodging, including broadening access for special-needs communities.

On Wednesday, June 17, 2015, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Enterprise Community Partners, and NeighborWorks America held a forum on Equitable Development Strategies for New Orleans Neighborhoods at the New Orleans Branch. Researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and public sector administrators came together to discuss housing and neighborhood renewal in the city.

Participants heard from those who have created and implemented housing revitalization plans in their cities. The forum also explored the challenges that must be addressed to combat blight and meet affordable housing needs. Panel discussions and brainstorming sessions gave attendees a sense of the perspectives, strategies, and programs that have been used to design effective housing plans and increase affordable residential development and preservation.