KEY TAKEAWAYS: Construction has officially begun on Raising Cane’s 9th Ward Stadium at LCMC Health Field in New Orleans. The facility will serve as the home field for George Washington Carver High School and support NOLA Public Schools. Plans include a turf field, 3,700-seat grandstand, lock er rooms, concessions, parking and community gathering spaces. A commemorative brick campaign has launched to raise funds for future stadium and track-and-field enhancements.   Construction has officially begun on the Raising Cane’s 9th Ward Stadium at LCMC Health Field, a new athletic and community facility planned for New Orleans’ Upper Ninth Ward that organizers say will expand opportunities for public school students while serving as a neighborhood gathering place. Community leaders, elected officials, educators and supporters gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of construction on the project, which has been years in development through a partnership of nonprofit, education, healthcare and private-sector organizations. The stadium, located in the Desire neighborhood, is being developed by 9th Ward Stadium Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on creating athletic and recreational facilities for Orleans Parish students. The facility will serve as the primary home field for George Washington Carver High School and will be available to schools across NOLA Public Schools. Plans call for an artificial turf field, seating for approximately 3,700 spectators, a press box, scoreboard, locker rooms, concessions, restrooms, parking and landscaped public gathering areas. Project leaders said the stadium is intended to function as more than a sports venue, providing space for community events, wellness programming and other neighborhood activities throughout the year. “Today is more than the start of construction. It is the realization of a vision that has been years in the making,” said Arnie D. Fielkow, chairman of 9th Ward Stadium Inc. “This facility represents opportunity, investment, and belief in the future of our young people.” The groundbreaking also marked the launch of a community fundraising effort known as the “Leave Your Legacy at Raising Cane’s 9th Ward Stadium” brick campaign. The initiative aims to sell 1,000 commemorative bricks during its first phase, with proceeds supporting the stadium and future improvements. Individuals, families, businesses and community organizations can purchase personalized engraved bricks for $150. The bricks will be incorporated into the stadium’s permanent landscape. The campaign is being administered through a partnership with Polar Engraving. Raising Cane’s founder and owner Todd Graves said the project reflects years of community support and investment in local youth. The fast-growing restaurant chain operates more than 1,000 locations worldwide and plans to open nearly 100 additional restaurants in 2026, according to the company. “We’re proud to be the official stadium partner for Raising Cane’s 9th Ward Stadium at LCMC Health Field and are so appreciative of all the Community leaders, residents, and businesses who have played a part in bringing this dream to life,” Graves said. LCMC Health, the stadium’s healthcare naming partner, said the project aligns with its focus on community wellness and youth development. “At LCMC Health, we are committed to creating a culture of wellness, and we know that begins in our neighborhoods, schools, and community spaces,” said Greg Feirn, chief executive officer of LCMC Health. Organizers said fundraising efforts will continue beyond the stadium project to support construction of an adjacent track-and-field complex, which would further expand athletic opportunities for Orleans Parish students. Additional construction updates and community engagement initiatives are expected to be announced in the coming months. ...read more read less