The PRC wholeheartedly supports New Orleans District ‘B’ Councilmember Lesli Harris’ efforts to develop and name a park on South Robertson Street in memory of Barbara Lacen-Keller, admired civic leader and champion of New Orleans culture, known as the “mayor” of Central City. Before her death in 2023, Ms. Barbara was a beloved member of the PRC’s Board of Directors, serving as the head of the Multicultural Heritage Committee.
This past February, Councilmember Harris, who chairs the city’s Quality of Life Committee, announced plans to transform an unused, city-owned concrete lot at 1801 South Robertson St. adjacent to the Keller Community Center into a community greenspace. Harris’ office is working with Thrive New Orleans to redevelop this park through a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement that also involves the New Orleans Department of Parks and Parkways and Office of Youth and Families.
The New Orleans City Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday April 22, 2025, to consider naming the future Central City park in honor of Ms. Barbara. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and provide comments.
Written comments can also be submitted in advance by mail (1300 Perdido Street, Suite 7W03, New Orleans, LA 70112) or by email to CPCPINFO@NOLA.GOV. Close-of-business on Monday April 14, 2025, is the deadline for written comments.
Read more about Ms. Barbara and her incredible legacy here – https://prcno.org/memoriam-barbara-lacen-keller/
