NEW ORLEANS –Today, The Louisiana Landmarks Society recognized the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) for its renovation of the historic transit facility at Napoleon Avenue and Tchoupitoulas Street. This honor is part of the Society’s 2025 Awards for Excellence in Historic Preservation, which celebrates projects that demonstrate outstanding restoration and rehabilitation of historic structures. 

Originally built in 1892 as the New Orleans and Carrollton Railroad Powerhouse, the facility played a key role in powering the St. Charles Streetcar Line before transitioning into a training and maintenance site for RTA. Following significant structural damage from Hurricane Katrina, RTA undertook an extensive restoration effort to stabilize and rehabilitate the building, ensuring its historic integrity while incorporating modern infrastructure improvements such as new roofing, windows, ADA-compliant restrooms, and energy-efficient systems. 

“What an honor to be recognized for our commitment to preserving the history of New Orleans while ensuring that our facilities meet the needs of a modern transit system,” said Lona Edwards Hankins, RTA CEO. “This restoration project is a testament to RTA’s dedication to both innovation and heritage, ensuring that our operations support the community with efficiency and respect for the past.” 

The RTA remains committed to projects that enhance transit accessibility, infrastructure, and historic preservation in the city. 

For press inquiries/interview requests: contact Zach Stanfill at zstanfill@rtaforward.org.