By Bryant Honore, III
Transforming New Orleans East Through Action
New Orleans East has long struggled with illegal dumping, blighted properties, and a lack of investment. Councilmember Oliver Thomas is changing that. His leadership focuses on cleanup efforts, policy reforms, and economic revitalization.
From removing abandoned tires to redeveloping neglected sites like Six Flags and Lincoln Beach, Thomas is making real, visible progress. His work is about justice, opportunity, and improving quality of life.
Cleaning Up Dumped Tires and Trash
Illegal dumping has plagued New Orleans East for decades. Thomas has tackled this issue with aggressive cleanup efforts and strong policies.
- He partnered with the Louisiana Department of Transportation to remove over 30,000 abandoned tires in six months【WWLTV】.
- He has led large-scale trash cleanups, joining citywide efforts like the “Love Your City” initiative【NOLA.gov】.
- Fewer illegal dumpsites have appeared, proving that his initiatives are making a lasting impact.
New Orleans East is no longer a dumping ground. Thomas is changing the city’s approach to waste management and community cleanliness.
Stronger Policies to Stop Illegal Dumping
Cleanups alone won’t solve the problem. Thomas has pushed for strict policies and better enforcement to prevent illegal dumping.
- In 2022, he helped pass a law allowing the city to seize vehicles used for dumping【WWLTV】.
- He has demanded stronger enforcement, stating that dumpers should be “booked, handcuffed, and have their vehicles seized”【WWLTV】.
- His reward program pays citizens for reporting illegal dumpers if the tip leads to an arrest【WDSU】.
- Surveillance cameras now monitor illegal dumping hotspots, catching offenders in the act【MEDIA.WWLTV】.
- The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality launched a tire recycling program, reducing waste and making disposal easier【COUNCIL.NOLA.GOV】.
These efforts deter illegal dumping and involve the community in enforcement.
Revitalizing Land Use and Development
Beyond cleanups, Thomas has led major redevelopment projects in New Orleans East.
Bayou Phoenix: Redeveloping Six Flags
Since Hurricane Katrina, the former Six Flags/Jazzland site has sat abandoned. Thomas helped push through the “Bayou Phoenix” redevelopment project, creating a sports, retail, and entertainment complex【OTFORUS】.
- He pushed ordinances to move the project through City Council, clearing the way for redevelopment【OTFORUS】.
- In 2024, demolition officially began, marking a major step forward【BIZNEWORLEANS】.
- The billion dollar project will bring jobs, tourism, and business opportunities to the area.
This transformation will turn an environmental hazard into an economic asset.
Restoring Lincoln Beach
Lincoln Beach was once a beloved gathering place for Black families in New Orleans. After years of neglect, Thomas has led efforts to restore the site.
- He secured funding for redevelopment【OTFORUS】.
- He successfully renamed part of Hayne Boulevard to “Lincoln Beach Blvd”, recognizing the site’s historical significance【OTFORUS】.
- A design team is now working on a master plan, shaped by public input【NOLA.gov】.
Thomas is ensuring Lincoln Beach becomes a safe, clean, and accessible waterfront destination once again.
Community Engagement and Environmental Justice
Thomas doesn’t just pass policies—he works with the community. This leader sees the neglect of New Orleans East as an environmental justice issue.
- He attends neighborhood meetings and town halls, listening to residents【INSTAGRAM】.
- He partners with local groups and nonprofits for cleanup projects【NOLA.GOV】.
- He collaborates with the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice to secure federal resources【INSTAGRAM】.
- His social media campaigns warn dumpers that the city “will catch you”, reinforcing accountability【INSTAGRAM】.
These efforts empower residents to take pride and ownership of their community.
The Impact of Oliver Thomas’s Work
Thomas’s leadership in New Orleans East is making a real difference.
- Illegal dumping has decreased, thanks to cleanups and stronger enforcement【WDSU】.
- More illegal dumpers are being caught and fined, restoring public confidence【WDSU】.
- Redevelopment projects are moving forward, creating new jobs and businesses【BIZNEWORLEANS】.
- Public support for Thomas remains strong, with many residents praising his hands-on approach.
New Orleans East still faces challenges, but under Thomas’s leadership, the area is moving forward with momentum and hope.
Oliver Thomas: Leading the Way in New Orleans East
New Orleans East has waited too long for leadership that treats the community with respect and investment. Thomas is proving that progress is possible.
From cleaning up dumped tires to revitalizing economic opportunities, he is leading real change. His leadership is turning neglect into action, blight into business, and frustration into hope.
For New Orleans East, a better future is finally taking shape—and Oliver Thomas is leading the way.