Louisiana Relocates Homeless Ahead of Super Bowl

In preparation for the Super Bowl on February 9, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has announced a plan to relocate around 200 unhoused individuals in New Orleans to a temporary shelter in Gentilly, while also facilitating transportation out of state for those deemed to have the means to leave. The initiative is backed by an $11.4 million budget for a 70,000-square-foot warehouse that will provide meals, medical services, and support for 60 days during the Carnival season. The governor's office emphasizes that employed individuals will be prioritized for housing assistance, while others who utilize state resources but are financially capable will receive bus or train tickets out of state. Critics, including local service providers, express concerns over the temporary nature of the solution and its cost-effectiveness, advocating for more permanent housing strategies that are already showing results. The relocation efforts will include clearing encampments around key tourist areas such as the Caesars Superdome and the French Quarter. State officials plan to enforce the relocations starting this week, with notices issued to those currently living in encampments.