It’s great to see the continued progress of our client Bayou Phoenix, toward redeveloping the former Six Flags site in New Orleans East. The vision for this 200+ acre property includes sports facilities, hospitality, entertainment, and family attractions that will help transform a long-vacant site into a vibrant regional destination. We’re proud to see this exciting project moving forward.
Published by: Kyron Neveaux/WWL Louisiana
Published date: March 2026
NEW ORLEANS — Developers behind the Bayou Phoenix project revealed new details about their plan to redevelop the abandoned Six Flags New Orleans site, previously Jazzland, during a community meeting in New Orleans East.
The proposed development would transform the property into a major entertainment and production destination, including movie studios, an indoor water park, hotels, a sports complex, and a large beach and lagoon attraction.
A plan to revitalize New Orleans East
Bayou Phoenix plans to redevelop the former theme park site, which has sat vacant for nearly two decades after Six Flags New Orleans closed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
“If you drive in New Orleans East right now, you will no longer see those rides and you will no longer see the eyesore that was there for the last 20 years,” said Bayou Phoenix Representative Mike McKenna.
- Film and television production studios
- A sports and recreation complex
- An indoor water park
- An eight-acre beach and lagoon
- Hotels and entertainment attractions
Developers estimate the total project will cost around $500 million.
Film studio component highlights local talent
One part of the development includes E. Ross Studios, a new production company founded by New Orleans native Alvin Ross.
“I just want to give people, especially young people, the opportunity to meet their destiny sooner by introducing them to different levels of production,” Ross said.
Ross said his experience learning from major filmmakers, including Tyler Perry, inspired him to bring film industry opportunities back to New Orleans.
Community reaction
Residents who attended the meeting expressed optimism about what the development could mean for the area.
“The project would be a great benefit for this area, so yes, I’m really enthused and excited about the movement,” said resident Willie Caltun.
Caltun added that many residents believe investment in the area is long overdue.
“We need it. I think it’s owed to us to bring this back into commerce after 20 years,” he said.
While developers say most of the project’s funding will come from private investors, they are asking for $50 million in public funding to help close the financial gap.
Bayou Phoenix partner Troy Henry said the request represents about 12% of the total $500 million project cost.
“I believe when Bayou Phoenix is back, our property values will go up again, and all these property taxes collected will be more of an investment,” Henry said.
New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno attended the presentation but left before discussions about the public funding request took place.
Developers said they plan to continue conversations with city leaders about how to secure the remaining $50 million needed to move the project forward.
If completed, the Bayou Phoenix development could bring new economic activity, entertainment options, and jobs to New Orleans East for the first time in decades.
