Gayle Benson Funds Major Restoration of St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans
Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, is leading the privately supported 'Our City Our Cathedral' campaign to fund a significant restoration of St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. The project, estimated to cost $45 million for the cathedral itself, is part of a broader $75 million campaign goal. The restoration will address extensive deterioration, including failing stucco, water damage, termite-damaged roof framing, and deteriorating interior plaster. The exterior work, which involves replacing stucco, repairing masonry, and installing new slate roofs, is expected to last at least two years. Following this, the interior phase will take another 18 to 24 months, focusing on restoring stained-glass windows, painted religious scenes, and reconstructing plaster ceilings. The project also includes the addition of a modern fire-protection sprinkler system. The cathedral plans to remain open as much as possible during construction, with weddings continuing through July 2027. 
