Tulane University this week unveiled updated renderings for its planned $500 million redevelopment of Charity Hospital, with construction expected to begin this fall.
Within hours, a panel of independent experts determined the images showed no signs of long-term exposure to New Orleans.
According to the report, the renderings displayed a level of faith in New Orleans infrastructure not documented in the scientific literature.
Researchers determined the optimism was structurally unsound, prompting investigators to consult retired Department of Public Works engineer Earl “Patches” Landry.
Landry, whose entire 37-year career was spent monitoring the same infrastructure project before retiring and leaving it to the next generation, said the renderings immediately raised red flags.
“I’m seeing entirely too much continuity,” Landry said while examining the images. “The sidewalks all connect, the landscaping looks intentional, every light pole is standing straight, and not a single barricade is protecting a hole nobody remembers digging. If these had been exposed to New Orleans for any meaningful amount of time, you’d expect at least one lane closed indefinitely, some standing water, and an orange barrel that’s outlived two mayors.”
Landry paused before adding, “These have all the classic signs of early-stage optimism. Whoever drew these hasn’t been here long enough.”
Tulane says construction could begin this fall. Experts recommend limiting the renderings’ exposure to New Orleans until they develop a healthier level of skepticism.