NEW ORLEANS — The former Six Flags amusement park in New Orleans, which has remained closed since Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, is now in the process of being demolished.
The deteriorating site, once filled with rides and attractions, became a haunting reminder of the hurricane’s impact on the region, as reported by local news sources.
Originally opened in 2000 under the name Jazzland, the park quickly faced financial difficulties and went bankrupt after just two seasons. Following this, Six Flags stepped in to lease the property, but the catastrophic flooding from Hurricane Katrina ultimately forced the closure of the park.
Over time, Six Flags too struggled financially, ultimately leading to the state takeover of the site by the Industrial Development Board of the City of New Orleans. This resulted in a transfer of ownership to the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA).
Local construction company Smoot Construction has been contracted to manage the demolition. According to developer Troy Henry, efforts to dismantle the unusable structures at the site are already underway.
“It’s a good initiative. We’re thrilled,” stated Henry, a resident of New Orleans East. “We’re eager to see progress and are happy that things are moving forward.”
Plans for developing the area are being led by Bayou Phoenix, a partnership that aims to revitalize the location. Proposed developments include a distribution center, educational facilities supported by the nonprofit STEM NOLA, a water park, a hotel, an esports arena, and a movie studio.
Henry mentioned that Bayou Phoenix has successfully secured an agreement with one of the primary tenants for the project’s main offerings and is currently in negotiations with potential tenants for the remaining two key projects.
The goal is to conclude discussions with these tenants by the end of the year, Henry noted.
More information regarding the ongoing project is expected to be shared on November 12, according to Henry.