Pontchartrain Shores

Unlike much of Greater New Orleans, the Pontchartrain Shores neighborhood has a history that goes back only to the 1950s. Before that, the area was swampland bordering the vast waters of its namesake lake. But efforts to drain the marsh and create stable land for homes and businesses paid off in the 1940s when developers began to plan communities along the manmade Metairie waterfront. From the top of the levee, residents can take in gorgeous views of the lake and parts of the New Orleans skyline. Today’s Pontchartrain Shores is defined by an active civic association, numerous opportunities for recreation and incredible dining options.

“This is a well-established neighborhood very close to Lake Pontchartrain. It’s defined by caring neighbors and well-kept houses and streets. People have a fierce pride of ownership here and it shows,” says Realtor Raisa Galper with Latter and Blum. “It’s also close to the Lakeside Shopping Center and all the restaurants and cafes along Veterans Boulevard.”

Living in The Shores provides an easygoing atmosphere and notable community spirit. Homeowners in the neighborhood take great pride in keeping their lawns neat and beautifully landscaped. In fact, great curb appeal is one of the major draws to the community. There’s also a large variety of housing stock. With homes built from the 1950s to the present day, there’s truly a style for everyone here. If you look closely enough, you may even find a lot where you can build your own custom house. Numerous mature trees make walking or biking through the neighborhood a welcoming experience. Prices here range from $340,000 for a three-bedroom, two-bath ranch-style residence to $650,000 for a four-bedroom, three-bath home near the lakeshore.

Students in Pontchartrain Shores have their choice of several schools including two elementary academies for advanced studies. The first is Airline Park Academy. With a tree-lined campus, this school welcomes children who thrive in a rigorous and academically challenging setting. The second is the Metairie Academy for Advanced Studies which was the first elementary magnet school in the parish. For slightly older students, John Q. Adams Middle provides a learning environment of nearly 40 classrooms, two zoological atriums, a talent center and a performing arts center. Founded in 1967, the school occupies a 10.5-acre campus and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

One of the major draws to the neighborhood is the Pontchartrain Shores Civic Association. This non-profit group strives to build community spirit, watch out for its neighbors and maintain property values. Formed in 1957, the association has helped to make the area highly desirable in Jefferson Parish. It holds regular meetings and often has local officials as keynote speakers, allowing neighborhood residents to build good relationships with civic leaders.

Another reason to experience The Shores is for the recreational opportunities. With Lake Pontchartrain just outside your door, the possibilities for fun in and on the water are endless. Whether you want to quietly fish in the morning or rollerblade in the afternoon, you can do both at places like the Pontchartrain Lakefront Trail or the Clearview Shores FitLot. The trail follows the shoreline of the lake for 12.3 miles, beginning at Bucktown Harbor and ending in Kenner near the Louis Armstrong International Airport. The paved multi-use trail passes by playgrounds, parks, and access points to the water. One of the places passed is Metairie’s own FitLot, an outdoor fitness park for all ages and ability levels. Sponsored by AARP, the integrated exercise equipment allows the public to strength train, balance, do cardio and work on flexibility. There are even instructions on how to use the equipment available on the welcome sign or by QR code.

Of course, you can’t talk about Pontchartrain Shores without mentioning Vincent’s Italian Cuisine. Opened on an unassuming side street in 1989, the “little Italian place” quickly developed a following of loyal customers returning for authentic dishes and a feeling of home. Stop by to experience the eatery’s unique charm reminiscent of earlier eras while sampling seafood cannelloni or a classic chicken parmigiana.

Pontchartrain Shores welcomes residents to enjoy its simple pleasures and great location in a community people are proud to call home.

Written By

K.T. Phillips

Photography Contributed By

Andrew Williams

Video By

Mark Barakat