Bush sees progress in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush says on the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina's Gulf Coast devastation he sees "hopeful signs of progress."

In prepared remarks released by the White House ahead of his Wednesday visit to New Orleans, Bush noted more than $126 billion has been committed to disaster response and recovery along the Gulf Coast.

"Together, we are working to make sure that New Orleans comes back -- even stronger, safer, and more vibrant than it was before the storm, he said.

Bush acknowledged "there is still a lot of work to do" before New Orleans is fully recovered.

"And for people who are still hurting and not yet back in their homes, a brighter day might seem impossible," he said. "Yet a brighter day is coming and it is heralded by hopeful signs of progress."

Those signs, he said, include repairing and upgrading the levees and flood walls, the restoration of housing, rejuvenation of the region's economy, improvements in the healthcare system, reduced crime and "the rebirth of New Orleans education."

Bush said there also is hope in the return of "the normal rhythms of life" as restaurants reopen, people cheer on their sports teams, churches reopen and music returns to the city.

Bush also said he was inspired by the efforts of the Louisiana National Guard and several individuals who have gone the extra mile to try to rebuild their city.