Economic disinvestment, political neglect, & natural disasters have eroded community pride & participation in Central City -- a once thriving hub of African-American civic & commercial life. The Mardi Gras Indian Campus on LaSalle Street in Central City will elevate the local culture that binds individuals, connects families, and creates a destination for indigenous artists to gain from a broader cultural economy fueled by tourism. Recently designated as a cultural district, redevelopment efforts and along the LaSalle corridor aim to nurture the indigenous cultural fabric, preserving residents’ connection to community. This first phase of the project will include purchasing properties for proposed campus site, community/resident engagement, hiring project manager and outreach coordinators; complete campus design, construction & implementing of site program.