NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The former Woolworth department store in downtown New Orleans is being torn down to make room for a high-rise mixed-use development.
Jaquetta White with the The New Orleans Advocate reports a construction crew began demolishing the 1940s-era building, on the corner of Canal and North Rampart streets, this week.
It will be replaced by a $70 million residential and retail complex called 1031 Canal Street.
This project courted controversy when it was first introduced seven years ago by developer Mohan Kailas. Those opposed to the construction argued it would damage the character of the French Quarter.
According to plans on file with the city, Kailas plans a 17-story building, with the first and second levels to include 85,000 square feet for shopping. A 467-car parking garage would occupy floors three through seven. The rest of the space would be dedicated to 240 condominiums, including penthouses on the top two floors.
The development will include a pool, gym, theater and banquet room.
