State Senator Ann Duplessis is announcing a new community enhancement project that is designed to improve and showcase a considerable portion of Interstate 10 from Read Boulevard to Parish Road in Eastern New Orleans. The beautification project calls for landscaping the interchange median with new soil and the planting of crape myrtle, bald cypress and palm trees along with an assortment of low growing grass, creating a beautiful, scenic focal point.

  "This project is the latest initiative to enhance our community and foster an environment of excellence that benefits our citizens, businesses and visitors," said Sen. Duplessis. "We recognize the incredible community we live in and take great pride in the way it looks."

  Through the efforts of state and federal officials, $811,000 is set aside for the beautification project with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) responsible for maintaining the site. According to DOTD officials, the project, which began earlier this month, should be completed in about 2 ½ months.

  The Clean and Beautiful campaign, which Sen. Duplessis sponsored in 2008, paved the way for this revitalization and beautification effort in Senate District 2. That campaign focused on transforming main roadways with the development of esthetically pleasing thoroughfares.

Together we will continue to make New Orleans Clean and Beautiful!