Summary
The Lower Ninth Ward in New Orleans, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, still faces significant challenges 20 years later. The area has seen a drastic drop in population and has limited businesses and services available, making recovery difficult for the remaining residents. Some individuals, like Burnell Cotlon, have worked to revitalize the community by opening businesses such as his market.
Key Facts
- In 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused massive destruction in New Orleans, especially in the Lower Ninth Ward.
- The Lower Ninth Ward's population has decreased from 15,000 African American residents to about one-third of that number today.
- Many residents did not return after the hurricane, leaving many homes abandoned.
- Burnell Cotlon owns one of the few surviving businesses in the area, Burnell's Lower 9th Ward Market.
- Cotlon notes a lack of basic services and stores, calling the area a "food desert."
- Some neighborhoods in New Orleans have recovered better than the Lower Ninth Ward.
- Before Katrina, the Lower Ninth Ward had more businesses like theaters and salons, but now only a few remain.
- Cotlon's market was a significant effort to serve the community and drew attention from well-known visitors.
