Neighborhood Overview
Chalmette, the parish seat and largest community of St. Bernard Parish, sits just downriver from New Orleans along the Mississippi River. This working-class community with deep industrial roots experienced catastrophic flooding during Hurricane Katrina, with nearly every structure damaged. In the years since, Chalmette has undergone a remarkable if uneven recovery, rebuilding its physical infrastructure while navigating complex questions about environmental health, economic development, and community identity. Its story reflects both the devastating impacts of disaster and the determined resilience of a community reimagining its future while honoring its past.
Quick Facts
- Population: Approximately 22,000 residents (about 75% of pre-Katrina levels)
- Demographics: Predominantly white (70%), with growing diversity (20% African American, 10% Latino and other groups)
- Housing: Mix of mid-century suburban development, new post-Katrina construction, and multi-family complexes
- Historic Significance: Site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans, home to significant oil refining and industrial operations, location of devastating Murphy Oil spill during Katrina, and example of large-scale suburban disaster recovery
Free Spaces
Chalmette Battlefield & Jean Lafitte National Historical Park
8606 W. St. Bernard Hwy., Chalmette, LA 70043
The site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans, this open green space includes cannons, walking trails, and interpretive markers overlooking the Mississippi River. Free admission year-round, with self-guided tours and occasional reenactments.
Chalmette National Cemetery
8606 W. St. Bernard Hwy. (adjacent to the Battlefield)
A quiet, solemn site where over 15,000 soldiers are buried, including veterans from every major U.S. conflict. The tree-lined paths and marble headstones make this one of the area’s most contemplative free walks.
Sidney D. Torres Memorial Park
8201 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043
The community’s central park, featuring wide lawns, picnic shelters, a playground, and a half-mile walking trail. It’s ideal for families, exercise, or outdoor gatherings — free and open daily.
Val Riess Sports Complex & Greenway
1101 Magistrate St., Chalmette, LA 70043
A large, open recreational area with baseball fields, walking paths, and shaded greenways. Even when no games are on, it’s a great place for a run, walk, or sunset view across St. Bernard Parish.
St. Bernard State Park
501 St. Bernard Pkwy., Braithwaite, LA 70040 (10 min from central Chalmette)
A free day-use area with walking trails, picnic tables, and peaceful cypress groves along the Mississippi River levee. It’s one of the quietest, most scenic outdoor spaces near Chalmette.
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