Turf Wars in the Delta
Plotting a future for the new New Orleans isn't just about urban design. Try money--and politics
Whether or not Nagin's plan takes hold, the commission's ambitious blueprint for New Orleans "is going to be scaled back and done in phases," says Mel Lagarde, cochair of the Bring New Orleans Back Commission. His hope, and the hope of many here, is that with a plan in place, city officials can come back to Washington with more ideas--and, of course, more requests for a whole lot more money. Sounds good, in theory at least. But the City That Care Forgot still faces plenty of stormy weather.
REBUILDING NEW ORLEANS In January, the Bring New Orleans Back Commission issued a dramatic blueprint for the city's future. The plan, heavily dependent on federal backing, would transform city neighborhoods by concentrating development on high ground while giving low-lying, devastated neighborhoods four months to prove they can return.
Immediate rebuilding Moderate to minor flooding. Neighborhoods on high ground where immediate redevelopment is encouraged.
Flood damage areas At least 4 feet of flooding. Neighborhoods that can't prove viability may be targeted as green space.
New development areas Underutilized "infill" zones targeted for dense population and commercial redevelopment.
[map labels]
Orleans Avenue Canal; London Avenue Canal; Industrial Canal; 17th Street Canal;
Tulane Univ.; Superdome; Convention Center
LAKEVIEW; FRENCH QUARTER; DOWNTOWN; LOWER NINTH WARD; ALGIERS; NEW ORLEANS EAST; GENTILLY
Mississippi River; Intercoastal Waterway; Miss. River-Gulf Outlet; Lake Pontchartrain
Source: Bring New Orleans Back Commission
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