Analysis of federal data by the New York Times found that FEMA’s public assistance program has paid for many rebuild-in-place projects that leave the structures just as defenseless against future storms.
One example is the Plaquemines Parish Detention Center, a new $105 million jail, in Louisiana that was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Although the building now hovers 19 feet above a marsh perched atop concrete pillars, it must be evacuated before any major storm because it was rebuilt on flood-prone land that could become essentially an island after a flood.
Rather than relocate damaged structures to higher ground, local officials often choose to replicate the past, ignoring new climate realities, theTimes report says. The federal government has actually taken steps back from requirements that could prompt rebuilding projects to beef up resiliency.
President Trump last year rescinded an executive order signed by President Barack Obama that required consideration of climate science in the design of federally funded projects. That could have forced some buildings to be elevated higher. In March, FEMA released a four-year strategic plan that removed previous mentions of climate change and sea-level rise.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2021
Intl. Code Council and Modular Building Institute release new off-site construction standards
‘Will create consistency for off-site construction; accelerate the industry’.
Codes and Standards | Nov 12, 2021
GSA will likely shrink federal office space post-COVID
Agency also needs to address maintenance backlog.
Codes and Standards | Nov 10, 2021
Los Angeles launches fast-track office tenant improvements program
Red tape to be cut to make interiors healthier and safer.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2021
Florida state building professionals call for mandatory high-rise building inspections
Group recommendation comes in wake of Surfside condo collapse.
Codes and Standards | Nov 8, 2021
Dept. of Energy to fund 10 pilot smart building projects
Connected communities will accelerate renewable energy adoption and grid resilience.
Codes and Standards | Nov 3, 2021
Fact sheets offer strategies to improve indoor air quality in schools
Center for Green Schools at USGBC document for people without a technical background.
Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2021
Rapid acceleration of affordable housing development expected over next five years
Federal government programs will spur construction.
Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2021
New bird-friendly technical design guide released
National Glass Assn. document offers design and installation best practices for glazing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2021
World’s first chief heat officer tackles how to protect Miamians from extreme heat
Focus on chronic exposure for outdoor workers and for those that can’t afford AC.
Codes and Standards | Oct 28, 2021
Design competition launched to show role of mass timber in decarbonization
Forest Service and Softwood Lumber Board will award $2 million in grants to winning teams.