St. Thomas Development Impact on Central City, New Orleans

St. Thomas Development was a notable public housing project in New Orleans that significantly influenced the Central City neighborhood. Originally built in 1941, it was among the first public housing developments in the United States under the Wagner Act.

TL;DR

• St. Thomas transitioned from a segregated, whites-only housing project to predominantly Black occupancy after desegregation in the 1960s.
• The development faced decline in the 1970s-90s due to poverty, crime, and lack of resources, impacting the surrounding Central City area.
• Recent redevelopment efforts have aimed to revitalize the area and reintegrate it into the broader community.

Historical Context of St. Thomas Development

St. Thomas Development was constructed in 1941-42 as part of the nation’s first public housing program under the United States Housing Act of 1937. Initially comprising 970 units across two and three-story brick buildings, with an additional 540 units added in 1952. Designated for white residents only, St. Thomas contributed to the forced relocation and displacement of the area’s mixed-race community, reflecting the era’s segregationist policies. After the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the development shifted to predominantly Black occupancy as white families left the inner city. The exodus of industry from Central City in the following decades, coupled with a decrease in social services, plunged St. Thomas residents into deep poverty. The development became notorious for its high crime rates, drug problems, and deteriorating living conditions throughout the 1970s-90s.

Current Landscape of St. Thomas Development

By the late 1990s, the St. Thomas Development had fallen into severe disrepair, with many of its buildings abandoned or uninhabitable. In an effort to revitalize the area, the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) received a HOPE VI grant in 1996 to demolish and rebuild the development. The demolition process began in 1998 and was largely completed by 2001, with only a few buildings preserved for historical purposes. The site was transformed into a mixed-income neighborhood called “River Garden,” featuring a combination of rental properties, single-family homes, and commercial spaces. Today, the River Garden development features a mix of affordable and market-rate housing, as well as a Walmart Supercenter and other retail establishments. However, the redevelopment process was controversial, with concerns raised about the displacement of former residents and the loss of public housing units.

Economic Impact of St. Thomas on Central City

The decline of St. Thomas Development in the latter half of the 20th century had a significant economic impact on the surrounding Central City neighborhood. As residents grappled with poverty and crime, businesses and investment fled the area, contributing to its economic stagnation. However, the recent redevelopment efforts have aimed to revitalize the local economy. The construction of the River Garden neighborhood and the addition of commercial spaces, including the Walmart Supercenter, have brought new employment opportunities and economic activity to the area. Compared to other urban redevelopment projects in New Orleans, such as the Iberville and Lafitte public housing transformations, the St. Thomas redevelopment has been seen as a more successful effort in terms of integrating the area back into the broader community and attracting private investment.

Cultural Influence of St. Thomas Development

Despite its challenges, St. Thomas Development has played a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of Central City and preserving the area’s rich history. The development was home to several community organizations and initiatives, such as the St. Thomas Irish Channel Consortium, Black Men United for Change Inc., and the St. Thomas Peacekeepers, which aimed to promote unity, self-determination, and community safety. Additionally, St. Thomas has been the site of various cultural landmarks and institutions, such as the St. Thomas Community Center and the St. Thomas Catholic Church, which have served as gathering places for residents and preserved the area’s cultural heritage. Ongoing cultural projects, such as the St. Thomas Irish Channel Neighborhood Association, continue to celebrate the area’s diverse history and work towards preserving its unique character amidst the ongoing redevelopment efforts.

Seasonal and Recurring Events in St. Thomas

While St. Thomas Development itself is no longer a residential area, the surrounding Central City neighborhood hosts several seasonal and recurring events that draw visitors from across New Orleans and beyond. One of the most notable events is the St. Patrick’s Day parade and celebrations, which honor the area’s Irish heritage and take place annually in March. The parade route typically runs through the heart of Central City, with festivities spilling into the surrounding streets and establishments. Other recurring events in the area include the Central City Renaissance Festival, which celebrates the neighborhood’s rich cultural diversity through music, food, and art, and the Central City Neighborhood Association’s annual block party, which brings together residents and local businesses for a day of community-building and entertainment.

Community Engagement and Development Initiatives

Throughout its history, St. Thomas Development has been the focus of various community engagement and development initiatives aimed at empowering residents and improving living conditions. In the years leading up to its demolition, organizations like the St. Thomas Irish Channel Consortium and the Plain Talk program worked to promote community cohesion, responsibility, and self-determination among residents. These efforts aimed to address the complex social and economic challenges faced by the community. More recently, the redevelopment process has involved partnerships between local authorities, such as HANO, and community groups to ensure that the needs and concerns of residents are addressed. Community input has been sought in the planning and implementation of the River Garden development, with a focus on creating a sustainable and inclusive neighborhood. Success stories of community empowerment and development in the St. Thomas area include the preservation of historical buildings, the creation of affordable housing units, and the establishment of community centers and green spaces for residents to enjoy.

Future Prospects and Ongoing Projects

As the River Garden development continues to take shape, there are several ongoing projects and future prospects for the St. Thomas area and Central City as a whole. One major initiative is the implementation of sustainable practices and innovative projects within the River Garden neighborhood. This includes the incorporation of energy-efficient building designs, green spaces, and community gardens, aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and improving the quality of life for residents. Additionally, there are plans for further commercial and residential development in the area, with a focus on attracting a diverse mix of businesses and residents. This includes the potential for additional retail spaces, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as a range of housing options to cater to different income levels. However, these developments also face potential challenges, such as ensuring affordability for long-time residents, addressing concerns about gentrification, and maintaining the area’s unique cultural identity amidst rapid change. Overall, the future of St. Thomas and Central City holds both opportunities and challenges, but the ongoing efforts to revitalize the area while preserving its rich history and community spirit offer hope for a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood in the years to come.