How New Orleans is using the Super Bowl to make the entire city more accessible

New Orleans is preparing to host the Super Bowl on February 9, and local advocates and leaders hope to use the event as a catalyst for change to improve the city's accessibility for people with disabilities. The city's compact French Quarter has been named the country's most walkable district, but it still lacks accessibility features, making it difficult for people with disabilities to navigate. Mark Raymond Jr., a local disability advocate, wants the city to improve its infrastructure, including fixing sidewalks, streets, and curb cuts, as well as providing better communication to ensure that differently abled fans can have a great experience. The city has gathered insights from the disability community and is working on approximately 550 infrastructure projects, including upgrading sidewalks, roads, and rights of way, with a focus on making the city more accessible. However, the historic city's older buildings, cracked sidewalks, and narrow passages make it challenging to update, and there are many historic preservation requirements to consider. Despite the challenges, local advocates and leaders are committed to making the city more accessible, not just for the Super Bowl, but for the long-term benefit of its residents and visitors. The efforts to improve accessibility will also have a positive impact on the local economy, as the disability travel market is a rapidly growing segment. The city's efforts are part of a larger trend, as other cities, such as Los Angeles, are also working to improve their accessibility infrastructure. The Super Bowl and other big events can be a catalyst for change, and cities can use these events to make lasting improvements to their infrastructure.