Though Jane and I are primarily residential agents in New Orleans, I occasionally do serve commercial clients and that is how I spent today. I've been out of the commercial scene for several months and was certainly having fun with the fast pace and challenging negotiations. Dealing with a lot of out-of-towners today made me realize how many folks still don't understand that we are not just recovering, but exceeding pre-Katrina conditions on many fronts, and that millions and millions of dollars are pouring into our market. I had to post just a bit on a few of the many things going on in the commercial world that will have direct impacts on the residential real estate market here. These large projects are changing the look of the city and what we have to offer the world. Here are just some examples:

1. On the hotel front we are going world class. In addition to our incomparable local favorites The Windsor Court and the La Pavillon, we have just opened the New Orleans Ritz-Carlton, and coming soon, the Waldorf-Astoria (here's an article) and the Trump International Hotel & Towers (contact me for any and all info on this one). There is one other hotel biggie we are involved in as commercial brokers that I hope we can announce to you soon.

2. The National World War II Museum has become one of New Orleans' most treasured attractions. You don't have to be a history buff or veteran to appreciate and be utterly moved by it. It's an incredible experience and the framework is already going up on its "Road to Victory" expansion. I can't wait to see what else they do!

3. A massive undertaking by the Federal Government called Federal City has just cleared some of its last hurdles. It will consolidate and expand the federal government's already sizable presence in the Crescent City. Adjacent to this is a massive neighborhood overhaul with residential, commercial, leasing, and leisure opportunities to serve those in Federal City. Here's a link to a short article on it in Bayou Buzz.

4. The city is planning to completely rebuild and expand by a great degree the Riverfront area so beloved by our residents and tourists. In addition to perfect strolls on the Mighty Mississippi, it will contain new facilities serving the Port of New Orleans and a new cruise ship terminal. This is definitely one of the most exciting things planned and you can check it out here.

5. Broadway South is an initiative to bring world class theatre and related ventures to New Orleans and other locales in Louisiana. This is another venture that Jane and I are personally involved in and look forward to the revitalization of the theatre district along and around Canal Street. Click here for more info on the initiative.

These are just some of the many ventures we're seeing down here. For all of you outside the area, we can't wait to have you back as these projects are completed.