DOTD joins with other departments to remind the public of the dangers of encampment fires
Friday, November 7, 2025 at 2:30:23 PM
New Orleans - The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), in collaboration with the Louisiana State Police, the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal, Troop NOLA, and the City of New Orleans Office of Homeless Services and Strategies, has recently initiated efforts to address a recent increase in homeless encampment fires. These efforts include providing assistance and alternative resources to homeless individuals, such as relocating them to safer environments during the colder months, as well as cleaning up debris under the state’s highway system.
“This coordinated effort with state and local agencies aims to protect critical infrastructure and people who could be injured from activities under or near the state’s highway system,” said DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet. “The interstate system is essential to travel in and around New Orleans, and long-term damage from incidents like fires could severely impact the city and regional traffic. We are working closely with our partner agencies to assist individuals in the encampments and to ensure these areas are cleaned and safe for both pedestrians and the traveling public.”
DOTD inspectors have already had to inspect multiple vital structures in the New Orleans area following several fires over the past week. One of these fires caused severe damage to the on-ramp of U.S. 90 Bus. from Earhart Blvd., leading to its indefinite closure.
Fires can cause numerous issues, such as damaging infrastructure and electrical devices, and releasing hazardous toxins that are unsafe to breathe. Damage to infrastructure results in costly repairs and worsens traffic delays due to overcrowded assets.
Louisiana State Police have reminded the public that obstructing public passages, including any public sidewalk, street, highway, bridge, alley, road, or other passageway, is forbidden.
DOTD employees assisted the other agencies by cleaning and removing debris from underneath the structures.
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