State Police Deploys Over 150 Troopers for Carnival 2025

NEW ORLEANS – Louisiana State Troopers are preparing for the busy Carnival season and assisting across the state. The celebration is expected to draw large crowds to the French Quarter and surrounding metro areas. To ensure safety on New Orleans area roadways during this festive time, the Louisiana State Police is partnering with the New Orleans Police Department and the Louisiana National Guard.

Governor Jeff Landry has committed over 150 Louisiana State Police Troopers from across the state to assist the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Police Department. These troopers will be deployed across the French Quarter, Central Business District, surrounding roadways, and parade routes, providing high-visibility vehicle and foot patrols to enhance public safety.

With large crowds anticipated, the safety of those in and around the French Quarter is a top priority. As part of these efforts, law enforcement officials are announcing the implementation of additional safety measures for the event. From February 28, 2025, through March 5, 2025, a French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone (FQESZ) will be established, covering the area from Canal Street to St. Ann Street between Royal Street and Dauphine Street. (Please refer to the attached FQESZ map for a detailed visual of the area).

Troopers will work alongside the Louisiana National Guard and other state agencies to enforce security within this zone, particularly on Bourbon Street, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

The following guidelines are in place for the FQESZ:

·       Backpack coolers and ice chests are prohibited within the FQESZ.

·       Anything larger than 4.5” x 6.5” (the size of a clutch handbag) are discouraged and subject to search by law enforcement prior to entering the FQESZ.

·       Vehicles will be prohibited from entering the FQESZ except for emergency purposes.  Beginning February 28, 2025, any vehicles parked in the FQESZ will be towed.

·       Visitors staying at hotels on Bourbon Street should access their hotel using the Royal Street or Dauphine Street entrances.  Visitors will be allowed access with luggage at the nearest barrier/cross street if the hotel does not have access to those streets.  Those visitors must provide proof of hotel reservation and identification.

·       Anyone refusing a search will be denied entry to the FQESZ.

·       During high levels of pedestrian traffic, Bourbon Street will be closed to vehicle traffic.

Troopers would like to offer everyone a few safety tips to keep you, your family, and your property safe while enjoying the festivities. The public is encouraged to utilize the City of New Orleans NOLA Ready website at www.nola.gov/mardigras where information about weather, parade delays, and parade route regulations.  Paradegoers can also text MARDIGRAS to 77295 to receive important parade updates. The website also allows you to track parades through https://routewise.nola.gov/  which provides locations of public restrooms, first aid stations, and lost children stations. “Routewise” will also display your location, which allows you to copy the URL and text your friends and family your exact location along the parade route. Safety tips, transportation impacts, and extra Mardi Gras information can be found at www.nola.gov/mardigras.

Event and Personal Safety Tips:

• Be Aware of “No Drone Zones”: A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is put in place for areas of New Orleans. Follow LSP on Facebook and X for information on TFR dates, times, and locations.
• Stay Visible and Alert: Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone, and stay aware of your surroundings to deter potential criminals.
• Safeguard Your Belongings: Avoid displaying cash or expensive jewelry. Keep valuables in your front pockets, and secure purses or wallets to reduce the risk of theft.
• Limit Distractions: Keep your phone use to a minimum while walking to stay alert to your environment.
• Interior Zone Restrictions: Coolers and ice chests are not allowed in the French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone (Canal Street to St. Ann Street and Dauphine Street to Royal Street).
• No Large Bags: Bags or containers larger than 4.5”x6.5” within the FQESZ are subject to search.

Safety for Children:

• Identify Landmarks: Help children recognize their surroundings by pointing out key landmarks.
• Create a Plan: Teach children what to do if they become separated, such as finding a police officer or a family with children for assistance.
• Identification: Write a phone number on a piece of paper and pin it inside your child’s clothing.
• Take a Photo: Snap a picture of your child before heading out to help authorities if they get lost.

Driving Safety:

• Drive Sober: Plan ahead for a safe ride. Use a designated driver, taxis, rideshares, or arrange for a sober family member or friend to pick you up. Never ride with an impaired driver.
• Buckle Up: Louisiana law requires everyone in the vehicle to wear a seatbelt. In the event of a crash, the safest place to be is inside the vehicle.
• Impaired Drivers Will Be Arrested: Louisiana State Troopers will be actively patrolling for impaired drivers. If you drive impaired, you will go to jail.

Parking:

• Be Aware of Parking Restrictions: Limited parking is available, so consider carpooling or using alternate transportation. Follow parking signs and avoid blocking fire hydrants or driveways. Don’t interfere with traffic flow.
• Avoid Towing and Fines: Pay attention to parking signs to avoid fines or having your vehicle towed. Remove valuables from your vehicle or keep them out of sight to deter theft.
• Lock Your Vehicle: Double-check that your vehicle is locked, windows are closed, and you have your keys. Remember where you parked, and take note of any landmarks nearby.
• Use Technology: If you use a smartphone, pin your parking location to help you find your vehicle later.

Reporting Suspicious Activity:

If you see something, say something! Use the “See Something, Send Something” app to report suspicious activity directly to public safety personnel. The app, available as See Send by My Mobile Witness, Inc., allows you to submit both text and pictures to investigators.

Additional Resources:

• Follow Louisiana State Police on social media for updates.
• To report impaired or aggressive drivers, dial *LSP (*577) from your cell phone.

Louisiana State Police wants everyone to remain safe, make good decisions, and have a safe and Happy Mardi Gras!

Contact Information:

Sergeant Kate Stegall 

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section – Region NOLA

[email protected]