French Quarter
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[edit] Overview
The most common definition of the French Quarter includes all the land stretching along the Mississippi River from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue (12 blocks) and inland to Rampart Street (7 to 9 blocks). Some definitions, such as city zoning laws, exclude the blocks facing Canal Street (which had already been redeveloped by the time "preservation" was considered) and the section between Decatur Street and the River, much of which had long served industrial and warehousing functions. Any alteration to structures in the remaining blocks is subject to review by the Vieux Carré Commission, which determines whether the proposal is "appropriate" for the historic character of the district.
[edit] Impact of Hurricane Katrina
At the end of August 2005, the majority of New Orleans was flooded due to levee breaches after Hurricane Katrina. The French Quarter, like most of the parts of town developed before the late 19th century, was one of the areas to remain substantially dry, since it was built on dry land that predated New Orleans' levee systems and sits 5 feet (1.5 metres) above sea level. [1] Some streets experienced minor flooding, and several buildings experienced significant wind damage. Most of the major landmarks suffered only minor damage and most have since reopened or are scheduled to reopen [2]. The Quarter largely escaped the looting and violence after the storm highlighted by large national and international media outlets; nearly all the fine antique and art shops in the French Quarter, for example, were untouched. [3]
Mayor Ray Nagin [4] officially reopened the French Quarter on September 26, 2005 to business owners to inspect property and clean up. [5] Within a month, a large selection of French Quarter businesses were back open.
[edit] Rebirth
Because its buildings suffered minimal damage from Hurricane Katrina, the French Quarter may seem "recovered" to the average visitor. However, the state os its architecture belies the difficulties of the neighborhood's residents and business owners. With the city's population dispursed and its tourism industry significantly
- For information about the city's travel industry, look to the Convention and Visitors Bureau or UNO's Hospitality Research Center.
[edit] Recovery
[edit] Recovery Resources
- Learn more about the Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents, and Associates (VCPORA)
- The Vieux Carre Alliance seeks funding for projects that enhance the quality of life in the French Quarter.
- The French Quarter Citizens organization seeks to preserve the residential quality of life in the French Quarter.
- Contact the Vieux Carre Commission
Google News Search for the French Quarter sorted by date (newest first)
NOLA.com Forum Search for Bywater Type in French Quarter and click "Go".
