The opening of a major shoe and sports apparel business at the corner of Tulane and Carrollton Thursday was trumpeted by city leaders as a sign that the recovery zones are moving ahead, but more than a year after the zones were announced, little has been done in the 17 targeted areas.

A map of the 17 target recovery zones.

“I’m not pleased with the progress any of us are making,” said Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson. “The people led our recovery, whether it’s the neighborhood leaders or the private investors. The government is finally following. We better quit following and take a lead and make it happen faster.”

Clarkson said that city leaders need to expedite the projects because the public is losing patience.

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin said the delays were due to tied up federal money, which was only released in November.

“The first real money was in November of last year,” said Nagin. “Then we had to go to design. Before you go to design, you have to have assurances to the city charter that the money is in the bank. Now that has happened.”

Nagin said there will be many more business openings in the coming weeks and months with private investment stepping up in the target zones.

“Design is happening,” he said. “Projects are starting and construction is right behind it.”