I just returned from Metairie and New Orleans.

I was able to enter Orleans parish via River Road. Drove around most of uptown, around the quarter, parts of the 9th ward, bywater. All of these areas are mostly dry. It appears things are still flooded north of 610. Tried to get in Gentilly via St Bernard, Elsian Fields. Water was too deep. Lots of National Guard, Marines and Army all around. Check points at most major intersections. You will need those passes issued by the parish to get by.

Metairie is clear except for debris, trees, downed poles. Drove around Vets, W Esplanade Ave, Bucktown. All clear.

If you want to get to the Municipal Harbor, your best bet is to park in Bucktown. Walk in via the road next to the 17th canal. You will have to stay off the leveee because the Coast Guard is using the new marina area as a staging ground for the helos, housing and supplies. They have guards posted along the levee. There is a footbridge at the end of the road where the 17th street canal meets the lake. After crossing, you will have clear passage to the marina area. Hope you have a strong stomach. The viewing is not for the weak at heart. The level of destruction is very depressing.

Good luck everyone on the recovery of your property.

If you need any further info, feel free to call me @504.382.8469. I am in the Jeff and Orleans parish just about every day now.

David H