Good News in the Lower Ninth

I heard a story on Morning Edition today about rebuilding in the Lower Ninth Ward. The souther part of the neighborhood close to the river, the area south of Derbigny Street — is officially reopened.

The story focuses on the historic Holy Cross neighborhood, which is just across the Industrial Canal heading downriver. FEMA is finally moving trailers into the area and they have about 300 requests for them in the neighborhood. Two residents were interviewed — one who was unlocking his new trailer and another who has finished remodeling already.

Unfortnately, two of the houses we gutted are inside the area that remains closed. House 2 at 1716 Feliciana near Derbigny (the stinky house) is just inside the closed area. House 3 at 2132 Feliciana near N. Miro (Yellow house with side garage) is completely inside the closed area. Here’s my original posting with clickable maps of the houses.

Tomorrow is the general election for mayor. Out of 17 original candidates, the fiel has narrowed to two: incumbent Mayor Ray Nagin and current Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu. The new mayor has a staggering job on his hands rebuilding a city that in some areas appears to be damaged beyond repair. Here’s an MTV story with clear directions for voting.