The annual University of New Orleans quality of life survey has been released. Orleans Parish residents say things are looking up.
The UNO survey finds 47 percent of Orleans Parish respondents say the city has become a better place to live over the past five years.
Jefferson Parish responses were also positive — at 42 percent.
UNO political science professor Ed Chervenak says the poll surveyed registered voters over the phone in October — about 300 in each parish.
Crime remains the major concern in New Orleans. In Jefferson Parish, it rates 26 percent.
He says Hurricane Katrina’s effect on the regional psyche seems to be diminishing.
“I’m not going to say it’s over," Chervenak said. "I think it’ll always be part of our consciousness. But I think we’ve moved far enough along that it’s further and further in our rear-view mirror.”
New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu remains popular — with a 65 percent approval rating.
By far the most popular elected official is Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand, with an 82 percent approval rating.
