Demolition Crews Arrive To Rip Down Entire Six Flags Park After Storm Damage

After years of neglect, one Six Flags is now being demolished.

First opened as Jazzland in 2000, the former site of Six Flags New Orleans was taken over by the theme park giant in 2002 after falling into financial trouble. The park offered attractions inspired by New Orleans culture, bringing entertainment to local families, but soon faced even more critical issues.

Credit: Erik Jorgensen, Flickr

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated the region, submerging the park under more than seven feet of water. Due to a drainage system failure, the park remained underwater for a month. Deemed damaged beyond repair, Six Flags abandoned the park, and by 2010, the company had filed for bankruptcy.

Over the years, the derelict site attracted urban explorers and videographers drawn to its haunting scenery of rusted rides and crumbling structures.

Now, demolition crews from New Orleans-based Smoot Construction have finally begun dismantling the remains.

Credit: Erik Jorgensen, Flickr

Developer Troy Henry, who is overseeing the redevelopment through his Bayou Phoenix partnership, commented on the significance of this step: “It’s a happy day. We’re excited about the progress, happy to see the ball rolling.”

Demolition officially began in November 2024, with the goal of transforming the site into a vibrant, multi-purpose recreational space after nearly two decades of abandonment.

Bayou Phoenix has secured strong community support for the project, which many locals see as essential for driving economic growth in New Orleans East and revitalizing the area.

Bayou Phoenix’s Vision for the New Six Flags Site

Bayou Phoenix’s plans are ambitious, aiming to turn the former Six Flags site into a thriving community hub. Proposed developments include a warehouse, a STEM education center sponsored by the local nonprofit STEM NOLA, a water park, a hotel, an esports arena, and a high-tech movie studio.

As Henry explained, the development aims to meet local needs while attracting outside visitors, establishing New Orleans East as a destination for both residents and tourists.

Credit: Erik Jorgensen, Flickr

To date, Bayou Phoenix has reached an agreement with one of three planned anchor tenants and is negotiating with the other two. Local leaders have shown strong support, with Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s administration backing the project as a major opportunity for economic revitalization in the area. Many residents view this development as a critical investment in an area that has faced years of neglect.

What do you think should happen to the former site of Six Flags New Orleans?