Recently, a letter from Brennan's, signed by Latrobe's, Faulkner House Books, and every business on the 400 block of Royal Street was sent to the NOPD, asking to close the pedestrian mall on Royal Street in the French Quarter by allowing automotive traffic throughout the day.

While the businesses of Royal Street may prefer an open street, we, the residents, and visitors of New Orleans, prefer a closed pedestrian mall that supports the thriving artist, musician, and street performer community that provides an atmosphere unique to the French Quarter. We oppose the request to close the pedestrian mall, and request and insist on Royal Street remaining closed for a portion of the day, as it has since 1971.

Further, we object to the use of terrorism as a red herring. This argument uses fear to disguise the attempt to accomplish two goals: 1. to remove street performers from in front of businesses (in response to complaints of noise, alcohol, etc) and 2. to allow easier access to businesses for customers and deliveries. These goals benefit only the businesses and owners, and do not benefit or mirror the view of the residents and visitors of New Orleans.