What waterway is recognized for providing a shortcut from the river to Lake Pontchartrain?

The waterway that is recognized for providing a shortcut from the Mississippi River to Lake Pontchartrain is Bayou St. John. This bayou is a historic waterway that flows through New Orleans, connecting to both the river and the lake, which has made it an important route for trade and transportation over the centuries. The bayou is characterized by its scenic beauty and has played a significant role in the city’s ecology and development.

The other options do not serve this specific function; they are streets or locations that do not provide the direct waterway connection from the Mississippi River to Lake Pontchartrain. Therefore, Bayou St. John stands out as the best answer, as it is a prominent water channel integral to New Orleans’ geographical and historical context.