By 1960, the population had grown to over 9,000. Numerous improvements were undertaken, including modernizing the police and fire departments, paving more streets and building a water treatment facility. Commercial activity was limited to Jefferson Highway and the northern end of Hickory. The 1970’s and early 80’s so rapid development of apartment construction on Hickory and areas of Elmwood. Completion of Earhart Expressway, making access to New Orleans proper much easier, influence this growth as the appeal of Harahan as a “bedroom community”. Today, Harahan is directly influenced by its relationship with the larger surrounding area – including Jefferson Parish and the City of New Orleans.