Local New Orleans news affiliate WWL is reporting that the authority that oversees the Morial Convention Center said it is applying for zoning changes that would allow construction of a so-called "Trade District" on the upriver side of the Crescent City Connection.

The public-private development known as the Convention Center District Development Project, or the Trade District, is pegged at $1 billion, according to a news release from the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority published on Sept. 14.

Zoning for the convention center is different on either side of the Pontchartrain Expressway and CCC, with different building height requirements. The authority said it is seeking “consistent height regulations” for the entire convention center and its surrounding properties.

The Trade District is planned for 47 acres on the upriver side of the convention center.

Among the developments envisioned are a new hotel for meetings and conventions, a park along Convention Center Boulevard, outdoor entertainment, as well as retail and housing.

Source: WWL