What's taking shape on the river? 🏗️

Progress is happening!

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Sept. 18, 2025

A Neighborhood for All

In August, the New Orleans City Planning Commission’s Design Advisory Committee recommended The Rivana Apartments for design approval — a major milestone in the continuing progress of the River District! This first phase of residential will include 220 units, with 165 designated as workforce and affordable housing. We’re grateful to the DAC members for their support, and to our design partners — Trapolin Peer Architects, Studio Kiro, Gibbs Construction and Gensler — for their thoughtful work and dedication.

The River District team remains committed to bringing workforce and affordable housing to this new neighborhood. Current plans include one- and two-bedroom units, as well as a beautiful architectural design that opens onto a central green space of the River District development and a retail-lined porch on the ground level. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.

Access to sign-up for interest in units /guest list coming soon!

Todd James and Michael Meredith spoke with Newell Normand about the new apartments. The interview is available on his website here.

Listen Now

Progress is Rolling

Progress continues as the River District's first tower begins to rise, plans for affordable and workforce housing become a reality and infrastructure work lays the foundation for the future.

Shell Riverside is officially underway and taking shape at 1600 Convention Center Blvd., the first Class A office building constructed in New Orleans since 1989. In addition to a recent site visit (pictured here), Nicole Webre presented to the Shell Steering Committee "Change Champions" on the progress of the new office building and the River District.
We remain on track with Infrastructure Construction, and are scheduled to complete the first phase mid-2026.
As of June 2025, the River District has spent more than $5 million with Small & Emerging Businesses (SEBs) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs).
The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience Museum is on track to break ground next year, paving the way for a $165 million cultural destination at the River District.

Stay Informed on Opportunities

Congratulations to Colette Hirstius

In August, New Orleans native Colette Hirstius was appointed as President of Shell USA. A longtime advocate for the economic health and well-being of our city, Colette will continue to lead operations from their new offices, Shell Riverside, based in the River District.

During her closing keynote at the GNO, Inc. summit commemorating Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 26, Colette announced major investments in disaster recovery and youth development. Thanks to Shell's support for the NOLA Coalition, the River District will serve as a hub for youth training for years to come.

We are grateful to work with partners who share our vision for thriving and equitable New Orleans.