Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, once a bustling, cultural hotspot. When the hurricane and subsequent flooding occurred over 110,000 homes were damaged, or destroyed and approximately 80% of the historic buildings were ruined.

Members of the Urban Planning Commission gather on January 11 to present their vision and plans for the rebuilding process. The new city plans have been described as “controversial” and “ comprehensive.” The team has developed many innovative features including an overarching light rail system, as well as improvements to k-12 schools.

However, this plan is hinged on the future population of New Orleans as well as the number of attractions, events, and conferences that will be back in the city. One way to ensure both of these things is to involve college students.

New Orleans is home to many colleges including Xavier, Tulane and Drake. The Urban Planning Commission needs to take these residents into account. What better way to bring people back to the city? By re-designing the city as an educational as well as a cultural hotspot. Young people, especially young people seeking out college educations, will flock to the city. While some may leave after graduation, many will stay bringing a new diverse crowd to city. The demographic is large in number and spends more money than any other. It is necessary for the planning team to involve the young residents and college students of New Orleans in every step of the process.

–Erin [erin.canty@brainreactions.com]

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