• 14 people killed and 30 injured in a deliberate vehicle attack on Bourbon Street on New Year's Day.
• City officials planned new bollards rated for only 10 mph, despite modeling scenarios where vehicles could reach speeds up to 70 mph.
• The attack, perpetrated by a radicalized combat veteran, exploited gaps in the city's security planning.
• Critics question whether New Orleans’ security measures adequately protect citizens against potential vehicle attacks.
• City’s previous bollard system had operational issues, leading to a decision favoring ease of use over crash safety.

Months before the tragic events of New Year's Day, New Orleans city officials were aware of the potential risks vehicles posed to densely populated areas like Bourbon Street. Prior studies indicated that a Ford F-150 could reach speeds of 12 to 70 mph, yet the city opted to install street barriers that could only withstand impacts at 10 mph. These new bollards, which had not yet been implemented at the time of the attack, were planned for installation prior to the upcoming Super Bowl in February 2025. This stark contrast in speeds raised serious concerns regarding safety preparedness and the adequacy of the proposed barriers.

The attacker, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, exploited flaws in the city’s security framework by maneuvering his truck onto an 8-foot-wide sidewalk, bolstered by the absence of effective barriers. The city's risk modeling failed to account for potential entry points from sidewalks rather than the roadway, leaving gaps that facilitated the attack. Following this incident, city officials faced intense criticism over their decision to select a bollard system focused on operational efficiency rather than crashworthiness. Observations highlighted that neither the old nor the new systems could have effectively thwarted the entrance of a vehicle traveling at high speeds during the attack. This situation has raised serious questions about whether appropriate measures were taken to prevent fatalities and ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.

Since 2020, the city has been evaluating its strategies to enhance public safety against vehicular threats but has encountered various challenges. The previous system, the Heald HT2-Matador, often failed due to operational difficulties compounded by Bourbon Street's unique environment. Consequently, the decision to opt for a new bollard system rated for 10 mph impacts has sparked renewed discussions about balancing safety and accessibility in densely populated tourist areas. As the city prepares for high-profile events, officials are under pressure to reassess their security planning to protect against future threats while respecting the city's vibrant culture.

For more details on the city’s response and ongoing investigations, read the full articles on The Guardian and India Times.