The owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans has had preliminary talks with the United States Postal Service leadership about purchasing the main post office on Loyola Avenue in downtown New Orleans, sources confirmed.
Sources said this effort is part of Gayle Benson’s vision to transform the area around the Superdome and Smoothie King Center into a world-class entertainment district.
This development comes as the New Orleans Pelicans and the state of Louisiana continue negotiations on a long-term lease to keep the team in New Orleans, with the current lease set to expire in 2029.
Renderings released by the Pelicans show proposed renovations to the Smoothie King Center and Champions Square, including plans to convert the old Macy’s building into a new training facility for the team and enhance entertainment options for fans attending Saints games, Pelicans games, concerts, and other events at the venues.
The Loyola Avenue post office campus, which opened in 1964, is the largest post office operation in Louisiana. It features a 14-story office tower that houses the post office and other government entities. Over the past decade, the facility has undergone consolidation and cost-cutting measures.
Because of its location, if Benson purchases the site, it would serve as a gateway to the Smoothie King Center and Superdome.
The Smoothie King Center, which opened in 1999, is a state-owned building that has never undergone significant upgrades. Sources said Benson is willing to contribute $150 million of her own money toward arena renovations as well as fully committing to paying for the development of the entertainment district. This could potentially include the post office site.
The state would be responsible for funding the remainder of the renovations.
Sources also tell WDSU that city leadership in New Orleans will work to ensure a main post office remains in Orleans Parish. If the property is sold to Mrs. Benson or another buyer, USPS is reportedly considering relocating the downtown operation and jobs based there to another location in Orleans Parish. Sites in Jefferson and St. Tammany Parishes would also be considered.
READ MORE:Sources: Post office purchase could advance Benson’s Downtown entertainment plans
