Insider’s Look at Lakeview New Orleans: Vibrant Community Life

Situated along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, Lakeview is a flourishing neighborhood in New Orleans that exudes a robust sense of community pride. With an abundance of local businesses, eateries, and outdoor recreational opportunities, Lakeview has become a coveted destination for families and individuals seeking a close-knit community ambiance within the city limits.

TL;DR

• Lakeview boasts a strong community bond and neighborhood pride
• Numerous local businesses, restaurants, and outdoor activities abound
• Family-friendly atmosphere with top-rated educational institutions

History and Background

Lakeview’s origins date back to the early 20th century when the area was primarily used for fishing camps and music halls built on wooden piers along the lake’s edge. In the 1930s, a dredging project filled in and extended the land on the shore, creating a firm boundary between the lake and the land for the first time. This development paved the way for the neighborhood’s growth, with most of the residential areas being built after World War II.

Over the years, Lakeview has evolved from a humble “lake” suburb to a thriving, moderately wealthy neighborhood known for its single-family homes and strong sense of community. Despite facing significant challenges, such as the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Lakeview has demonstrated remarkable resilience and continues to grow and prosper.

Community and Lifestyle

One of the defining characteristics of Lakeview is its close-knit community feel and the numerous neighborhood events that bring residents together. The Lakeview Civic Improvement Association (LCIA) plays a vital role in fostering this sense of community, with President Trey Babin noting, “The neighbors take care of one another and we patronize businesses here. We go to restaurants, we go to coffee shops, we buy gas and groceries here. It’s really a special community. We take pride in it.”

Residents have numerous opportunities to get involved in their community through volunteer work and participation in various neighborhood associations and community groups. This strong sense of belonging and pride is evident in the way locals sport their “Lakeview Vikings” T-shirts at playgrounds on Navarre Avenue.

Local Businesses and Amenities

Lakeview boasts a thriving local business scene, with a wide array of unique shops, services, and dining options. Harrison Avenue serves as a one-stop-shop for residents, offering boutiques, a toy store, and a brand-new public library at the corner of Harrison Avenue and Canal Boulevard.

The neighborhood is also known for its popular restaurants, cafes, and bars, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Some notable eateries include District Donuts Sliders & Brew, The Velvet Cactus, and Lakeview Grocery.

Outdoor Recreation and Green Spaces

One of Lakeview’s greatest assets is its proximity to Lake Pontchartrain and the abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in the area. The neighborhood is situated beside City Park, allowing residents to easily access the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, part of the New Orleans Museum of Art, as well as Storyland, a beloved family amusement park.

The lakefront itself is a popular destination, dotted with seafood restaurants, sailboats, and marinas. Residents can enjoy walking paths on West End and Pontchartrain Boulevard, which are illuminated at night thanks to the efforts of the Civic Improvement Association.

Housing and Real Estate

Lakeview is known for its primarily single-family homes, with architectural styles ranging from frame cottages and post-WWII brick ranch houses to Spanish cottages with sloping roofs. Following Hurricane Katrina, many homes were rebuilt or significantly repaired, often leading to larger, modern residences on combined lots.

The real estate market in Lakeview has seen significant growth in recent years, with average home sale prices increasing from around $250,000 in 2011 to $600,000 in 2021. Despite the rising prices, the neighborhood remains a desirable location for families and individuals seeking a strong sense of community and access to top-rated schools.

Education and Schools

Education is a top priority in Lakeview, with the neighborhood boasting several highly-rated public and private schools. The Lakeview campus of the Hynes Elementary charter school consistently ranks among the city’s best, while St. Dominic School, founded in 1924, serves 600 students today.

In addition to traditional K-12 education, Lakeview offers a variety of educational resources and programs for students, as well as adult education and lifelong learning opportunities through local organizations and institutions.

Transportation and Accessibility

Lakeview is easily accessible via major roads and highways, such as I-10/I-610 and US-90, making it a convenient location for commuters and visitors alike. Public transportation options, including buses, provide an alternative means of getting around the neighborhood and connecting to other parts of the city.

The neighborhood is also known for its walkability and bikeability, with many residents enjoying the ability to easily access local amenities and green spaces on foot or by bicycle. Lakeview’s proximity to downtown New Orleans and other key areas of the city further enhances its appeal as a desirable place to live and visit.

Conclusion

Lakeview, New Orleans is a flourishing neighborhood that offers a unique blend of community spirit, local amenities, and outdoor recreation opportunities. With its strong sense of pride, top-rated schools, and growing real estate market, Lakeview continues to attract families and individuals seeking a close-knit community atmosphere within the vibrant Crescent City.