Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced that New Orleans was implementing new restrictions for the Mardi Gras weekend, closing all bars next weekend and increasing enforcement of the guidance to help prevent superspreader Mardi Gras events that could lead to a COVID-19 outbreak in the city.
"What we saw on Bourbon Street last weekend," Cantrell said, referencing viral videos of crowds on Bourbon Street, "totally unacceptable."
The new restrictions will go into place at 6 a.m. February 12 and remain in effect through 6 a.m. February 17. Under the guidance, bars across the city will be closed indoors and outdoors and no sales of to-go drinks will be permitted. There will also be no sales of packaged liquor in the French Quarter.
Additionally, no pedestrians or vehicles will be permitted on Bourbon, Frenchman, and Decatur streets between the hours of 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. The only exceptions to this restriction are residents, employees, hotel guests, and guests and restaurants and retail establishments. Pedestrians will not be allowed on the Claiborne underpass to help prevent crowds that tend to gather in the area on Mardi Gras Day. Street vendors, performers, and buskers will also not be permitted during this time.
Mayor Cantrell also addressed concerns from any resident who may think the new restrictions are too strict, saying it's all about protecting the health and safety of New Orleanians.
"When it comes to our health and our people, I'd rather be accused of doing too much than too little," she said.
Gov. John Bel Edwards, in support of Cantrell's decision, said state law enforcement and fire marshals will be in the city to help enforce the restrictions. He hopes anyone celebrating the season, whether locals or visitors, will consider how quickly the virus can spread.
"There's a good chance that someone travels in and brings the virus," said Gov. Edwards. "And if they don't, there's a good chance when they go home they're going to take it home with them."
Watch Mayor Cantrell's announcement here.
Photo: Getty Images