Demolition begins at old Six Flags site in New Orleans

The big picture: Bayou Phoenix, the development company for the project, is hosting a Nov. 12 event so elected officials and others can "watch as the demolition phase begins," the invitation says.

• Henry says New Orleans-based Smoot Construction has already begun demolition.
• The developers say they'll provide updates about the timeline at the November event.

The intrigue: Several redevelopment plans have been proposed over the years, but nothing has stuck.

• The abandoned park, however, is a popular destination for film productions.

Catch up quick: Bayou Phoenix plans to transform the overgrown site in New Orleans East into a bustling, $500 million complex with youth sports fields, hotels, shops, a movie studio and a waterpark.

• The New Orleans Redevelopment Authority approved the master plan last year and signed a lease with Bayou Phoenix for the 227-acre site.
• The developers are seeking about $100 million in government funding for infrastructure, Henry says. Other pieces will be self-financed, he said.

Go deeper:

• Bayou Phoenix signs contract for film studio
• Bayou Phoenix's master plan
• Washington Post's walking tour of the abandoned park