Everywhere you turn, there are road and construction projects, proof to many business owners that historic Bay St. Louis is making a comeback.

"Right after the storm, we had a lot of foot traffic," said Spencer Gray of Gallery 220.

That was when thousands of relief workers were in the area. Gray said business was good those first weeks after the storm.

"We still get business," Gray said. "It isn't as strong or heavy as it once was. We are on the rebound. I can only expect it will get better.

But for at least one business owner who didn't want to go on camera, business is excruciatingly slow. On the day we met, he hadn't had a customer in two days. He's had the business for over 50 years.

"I think I'm a perpetual optimist," said Jenise McCardell of Clay Creations.

McCardell also owns art studios in New Orleans. She paints architectural sculptures of locations along the coast, Some of the landmarks are still standing, but many aren't.

"I know that it can get you down to see this in and out," said McCardell. "But you have to look toward the future. I just hope they hang in there. A lot didn't but those that did are strong and that's what the town needs."

In May 2007 the opening of the new Bay Bridge made visiting the isolated business much easier. The bridge also improved the quality of life for those living on both sides.

"We love it," said coast resident Carrie Franklin. "In addition to it being easier to get to and from the bay, this provides us with a way of getting exercise. Other than the noise of the traffic, it's beautiful."

Maybe more people will build and come back, and maybe the insurance will come down. That could give people the initiative to put their roots back here in Bay St. Louis.