About The Project
Rebuilding the Beach is a community-driven initiative to restore shoreline access, celebrate our local history and build a stronger more resilient coastal future for generations to come.
Our Mission
To restore and revitalize the historic Pontchartrain Beach area by protecting the shoreline, honoring its cultural legacy, and creating an inclusive lakefront destination filled with recreation, community activities, family-friendly experiences, and public beach access for all of New Orleans
A Piece of New Orleans History
For decades, Pontchartrain Beach was more than just a beach — it was a New Orleans tradition.
Families spent summer days by the water. Friends gathered for rides, food, music, laughter, and memories that still live on today. For many locals, the old Pontchartrain Beach represents childhood, family, freedom, and a special kind of lakefront joy that the city has never forgotten.
Although the original beach closed in 1983, the feeling of Pontchartrain Beach still holds a place in the heart of New Orleans. Rebuilding the Beach is about honoring that history while creating something new for today’s generation.
This project gives us the chance to bring back the spirit of the old beach — the fun, the community, the music, the food, the family days, and the feeling of having a true public waterfront destination that belongs to everyone.
Beach & Water Access
Relax by the water enjoy the sand, and take in the lakefront views.
What People Will Be able to enjoy.
Family Fun
Create a safe place for picnics, kids’ activities, and memory -making.
Walking & Wellness
Enjoying walking paths, biking, fitness, and outdoor wellness experiences
Food & Vendors
Celebrate local flavor with food vendors, pop-ups and community markets.
Events & Music
Host Live music, movie nights, festivals, and cultural gatherings.
History & Learning
Honor the story of Ponchartrain Beach through signs, storytelling, and community heritage.
Who Are We
Rebuilding the Beach began with one powerful idea: New Orleans deserves to have its beach back.
For generations, Pontchartrain Beach was a place where people gathered by the lake to enjoy family days, entertainment, food, music, rides, and unforgettable memories. It was a place that brought people together and gave the city a true waterfront escape.
Today, we want to bring that feeling back — not by simply recreating the past, but by honoring it. Our vision is to restore the shoreline and create a modern lakefront destination inspired by the joy, culture, and nostalgia of the old Pontchartrain Beach.
This new beach can become a place for everyone: families, kids, seniors, locals, visitors, small businesses, artists, musicians, fitness groups, and community organizations.
This is more than a beach. This is New Orleans getting a piece of itself back.
Why This Project Matters
Environmental
Restoring the beach helps protect the shoreline, improve natural habitats, support wildlife, and strengthen the lakefront against erosion and future environmental challenges
Cultural
Pontchartrain Beach is part of New Orleans history. Reviving it means honoring the memories, stories, music, food, and community spirit that made the old beach special.
Recreational
This project will create a welcoming outdoor destination where people can swim, walk, relax, exercise, attend events, enjoy local food, and spend time with family and friend
Economic
A revitalized beach can support local businesses, tourism, vendors, events, and job opportunities while bringing new energy back to the lakefront.