Things are rapidly getting back to normal in New Orleans. The airport opened this morning. Passengers are advised to check with their airline carrier for complete information. Full power is expected to be restored to the entire city by Friday afternoon. Stores, gas stations and restaurants are opening again. The best news is that the New Orleans Saints will play in the Superdome this Sunday. I'll be in that number! Hope to see you soon in New Orleans.
Mayor Ray Nagin announced that residents of New Orleans can return home on Thursday. However, the Mayor reminded citizens that many homes are without power and there are few grocery stores or gas stations open. There is also a dusk to dawn curfew in effect. Work on restoring power is underway and some businesses are expected to open this weekend. Currently the airport is closed to commercial traffic, but is expected to re-open on Thursday.
Jefferson and St. Tammany Parishes have been open for the return of all residents. However, New Orleans is still closed to return due to roadways blocked by fallen trees. and downed, live wires. The Causeway bridge and the I-10 twin spans are open to traffic. Highway 90 is closed due to a problem on the Chef bridge.
The Louis Armstrong Airport in New Orleans is closed due to loss of power lines. An announcement is expected on Wednesday, September 3 is expected. I-49 is open, I-10 is open. However, the twin spans across Lake Pontchartrain are still closed pending inspection. Further, the mandatory evacuation of New Orleans and Jefferson and St. Tammany Parishes are still in effect. Those parishes are closed.
