Water justice fund

Building a more resilient New Orleans

A community-developed solution to fund the drainage, green infrastructure, and stormwater systems our city depends on.

New Orleans faces growing challenges from flooding, aging infrastructure, and climate change. The Water Justice Fund campaign advances a sustainable and equitable approach to funding drainage improvements alongside green infrastructure and nature-based solutions that reduce flooding, protect neighborhoods, and improve quality of life across the city.

About the Campaign

Funding the infrastructure we all rely on

Creating a dedicated funding source where everyone contributes fairly and residents are protected from financial hardship.

The Water Justice Fund would create a dedicated, long-term funding source to maintain and improve New Orleans' drainage and stormwater systems while investing in green infrastructure and nature-based solutions. The proposal is designed so that all properties, including large tax-exempt institutions, contribute their fair share while providing affordability protections and exemptions for residents who would otherwise face financial hardship.

Empty waterway with concrete sides, horizontal concrete beams, and black metal fencing on both sides.
Our key priorities

Community-led water justice

A plan shaped by New Orleanians to create a fairer, more resilient city.

Through public engagement, research, and coalition-building, community organizations are working to ensure any new stormwater funding system is transparent, equitable, and accountable.


Dedicated funding

Create a reliable, long-term funding source for drainage and stormwater improvements, green infrastructure, and nature-based solutions.

(01)


Flood resilience

Invest in traditional drainage alongside green infrastructure and nature-based solutions that reduce flood risk and strengthen neighborhood resilience.

(02)


Equitable investment

Build a more equitable system where all properties, including large tax-exempt institutions, contribute to the infrastructure we all rely on.

(03)


Transparency and accountability

Give residents clear information and meaningful oversight of how funds are collected, allocated, and spent.

(04)


Community voice

Keep residents at the center of decision-making through community oversight and ongoing opportunities to shape infrastructure priorities.

(05)


Water justice

Advance a community-developed approach that treats reliable infrastructure, flood protection, and climate resilience as essential to the health and well-being of every neighborhood.

(06)


Affordability protections

Protect residents facing financial hardship through exemptions and affordability measures designed to keep the fund equitable.

(07)

Get involved

Invest in a stronger future

Safe neighborhoods, resilient infrastructure, and healthy communities require long-term investment.

Join the conversation about how New Orleans funds and manages its water infrastructure.