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President Trump last year rescinded an executive order signed by President Barack Obama that required consideration of climate science in the design of federally funded projects.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 | Aug 29, 2019
Code-conforming wood design guide available
The guide summarizes provisions for the use of wood and wood products in the 2018 IBC.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2019
LEED residential market up 19% since 2017
The U.S. Green Building Council says that the LEED residential market has grown 19% since 2017. Nearly 500,000 single family, multifamily, and affordable housing units have been certified globally.
Codes and Standards | Aug 27, 2019
Slower speed limits in urban areas offer multiple benefits
Improved safety, better adoption of electric scooters and autonomous vehicles are possible if drivers ease off the accelerator.
Codes and Standards | Aug 27, 2019
Renewables creating significant savings for commercial and public facilities
Payback ranges from five to 15 years.
Codes and Standards | Aug 27, 2019
Oregon rescinds tsunami-zone construction ban
Other states have no ban, but have strengthened building codes for tidal wave resilience.
Urban Planning | Aug 27, 2019
Pop-up parks revitalize empty lots
Pop-up parks that provide instant open areas for public use and programming can revitalize under-utilized spaces and add vibrancy to neighborhoods.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Texas flood prevention initiative would create nation’s most ambitious barrier system
Plan including sand dunes and mechanical barriers would cost as much as $32 billion.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Multimedia app identifies construction hazards
Researchers say program will reduce injuries, save lives.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Cities take action to keep cool as climate heats up
Initiatives include cool streets, cool roofs, and broader urban tree canopy.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
5G expected to give a boost to construction technology
Virtual reality, Internet of Things, robotics, and drones will all benefit from enhanced data flows.