PHOTO: The heart of the French Quarter. (via Wikipedia)
The New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau announced this week that it will provide $2.5 million to help fund additional Louisiana State Police patrols within the city beyond this month's Mardi Gras celebration.
According to the Associated Press, the city is fighting against a rise in violent crime, and with a busy spring tourism season expected, the CVB aims to provide a safe environment for visitors and keep the focus on what makes The Big Easy one of the most exciting places in the world to visit.
State Police Superintendent Mike Edmonson points out that the hefty donation will allow his organization to assist without compromising its budget or safety in other parts of the state.
After Mardis Gras on Feb. 17, a handful of conventions and festivals in New Orleans, including the French Quarter Festival and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, have city officials bracing for an influx of tourists this spring.
"We are running more than 90 percent (hotel) occupancy every weekend," said New Orleans CVB president Stephen Perry.
In response, New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu and the city police chief Michael have since announced that recruitment efforts are underway as they look to build up the police force of less than 1,200.
The city has also announced an enhanced effort to build up a reserve police force from retired officers.
In the meantime, tourists can take comfort in the CVB's proactive approach ahead of the popular tourist season.
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