Neighborhood Overview
Plum Orchard, situated in the heart of New Orleans East between Chef Menteur Highway, the Industrial Canal, I-10, and Read Boulevard, represents both the challenges and resilience of this often-overlooked section of the city. Developed primarily in the 1960s and 1970s as a suburban-style residential community, Plum Orchard offered affordable homeownership opportunities for working and middle-class families, particularly African Americans seeking the American dream of suburban living. Catastrophically flooded during Hurricane Katrina with most areas experiencing 6-10 feet of water, the neighborhood has faced a long and uneven recovery journey. Despite significant challenges, including disinvestment and service gaps, resident determination has driven ongoing rebuilding efforts that demonstrate the community's enduring commitment to reclaiming their neighborhood.
Quick Facts
- Population: Approximately 4,200 residents (approximately 65% of pre-Katrina population)
- Demographics: Predominantly African American (90%), with growing Latino population in recent years
- Housing: Ranch-style single-family homes, small apartment complexes, and post-Katrina new construction
- Historic Significance: Represents the mid-20th century suburban expansion of New Orleans, site of significant Black middle-class homeownership, and example of community-driven disaster recovery
Free Spaces
Joe W. Brown Memorial Park
5601 Read Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70127
A 135-acre park featuring lagoons, walking trails, sports fields, and picnic spots. Free and family-friendly, it’s one of the largest green spaces in New Orleans and a hub for community recreation and outdoor fitness.
Joe W. Brown Park Nature Center & Wetlands Boardwalk
Within Joe W. Brown Park, near Dwyer Blvd. entrance
A quiet retreat for birdwatching and walking, this section of the park includes an elevated boardwalk through cypress wetlands and a small nature education area. Admission is free.
Victory Community Garden
Corner of Dwyer Rd. & Wilson Ave., New Orleans, LA 70127
A resident-run urban farm growing vegetables, herbs, and native plants. Visitors are welcome to walk through or volunteer — a living example of local sustainability and food security efforts.
Lake Forest Boulevard Greenway & Walking Path
Lake Forest Blvd. between Read Blvd. & Bullard Ave.
This landscaped, tree-lined median doubles as a biking and walking route, connecting Plum Orchard with nearby neighborhoods. A great way to experience the area’s suburban design and community rhythm.
Plum Orchard Resilience & Rain Garden Sites
Near Chef Menteur Hwy. & Read Blvd.
Community-driven green infrastructure plots designed to manage stormwater and beautify vacant lots. These gardens showcase how neighbors are turning recovery into environmental education and civic pride.
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