Local and Regional Initiatives to Combat Global Warming

Compiled by Blair Hayman, OEA Intern

Citywide Programs:

• Retrofitting of 200 City Buildings - will increase energy efficiency by 20% and save $1.8 million/year.
• Conversion of street lights to high-pressure sodium (amber) and metal halide (white). Plan to experiment with super flourescents (white & more energy efficient).
• Evaluating light emitting diodes (LEDs) for traffic signals. Note: LED's and higher efficiency streetlights save both energy and maintenance costs.
• Computerization of lights on playgrounds to save energy use when playgrounds not in use.
• Emissions inventory and analysis being conducted by OEA. 
• Development of volunteer speakers' bureau to increase curbside recycling participation.
• Canal Streetcar Project underway; Desire Streetcar Project being studied

Regional Initiatives:

• One-Day Ride Ticket for New Orleans & Jefferson Parish buses - began September 1999 and continued indefinately due to huge response.
• Light Rail from New Orleans CBD to Airport using existing RR track & right of way.
• Maglev proposal - New Orleans one of seven cities competing nationally for magnetic levitation rail system from North to South shore.