FEMA entering next phase of Katrina and Rita recovery

FEMA is merging its Long Term Community Recovery (LTCR) efforts into its Joint Field Office operations in Baton Rouge . FEMA has been operating LTCR offices in the 19 parishes most severely impacted by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. These offices, called storefronts, have worked closely with local officials and community residents to develop a comprehensive, long-term recovery strategy. FEMA conducted workshops and community meetings at many of the storefronts. As part of the workshop project, FEMA worked with state and local government officials to identify needs and helped develop solutions in five recovery categories: environmental and coastal impacts; housing; economic development; infrastructure and transportation as well as human services.

FEMA also held public input meetings at the storefronts to ensure that Louisiana residents would be directly involved in the recovery planning process. LTCR efforts, driven by state and local priorities, are focused on the permanent restoration of infrastructure, housing and the local economy.

“FEMA has received input on long-term community recovery from thousands of individuals and community groups,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Scott Wells. “As we transition into the next state of planning, FEMA remains committed to helping Louisiana recover.”

FEMA is closing all 19 storefronts on March 20th, 2006 and integrating their product and future information into FEMA’s planning section. However, LTCR will continue to meet with local individuals and community organizations.

Long-term recovery planning teams include experts in economic development; engineering; coastal issues; environmental issues; architecture and planning.

•Date: 14th March 2006• Region: US • Type: Article •Topic: Disaster recovery
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