Utilities and drainage were among the challenges on a $50-million project to convert existing traf c lanes and sidewalks into a linear park, which spans the entire length of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.

Construction is progressing on a $50-million project that will convert traffic lanes and sidewalks into a 7.5-acre linear park in front of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. But to make that work, the project team must follow detailed plans to address concerns about traffic patterns, existing utilities and drainage.