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Release Date: November 7, 2008
For Immediate Release
Contact: Rebecca Cotton (202) 325-0197
New Orleans, La. – General Douglas O'Dell, federal coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding, today in a videotaped message told investors, builders and key leaders at the Miami to New Orleans Construction Summit that they have an historic opportunity to help in the rebuilding of New Orleans and the greater Gulf Coast.
He encouraged those gathered for the summit, which was hosted by the World Trade Center of New Orleans (WTC) and the Latin Builders Association (LBA), to give strong consideration to joining the efforts to rebuild the Gulf Coast.
"If there's an opportunity that's historic for those who know how to swing a hammer or build a good house (this is it)," O'Dell said. "I would urge you to think about redirecting your attention, redirecting your energies and redirecting your resources into the Gulf Coast and particularly the City of New Orleans."
O'Dell added, "This is a long-term recovery and we need to take a long-term view. The resources are there to make your efforts pay off both from the State and the Federal government and through the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority."
O'Dell's comments reinforced the President's commitment to rebuilding the Gulf Coast in stronger, safer and better ways. Toward that effort, the federal government has provided more than $126 billion for rebuilding. When tax credits are added in, that total rises to more than $140 billion.
George J. Fowler, III, a board member of the WTC, said, "I appreciate General Doug O'Dell's commitment to ensuring our community is aware of the many opportunities and benefits available to investors, developers and contractors. We in New Orleans are grateful to General O'Dell for his leadership in connection with the recovery of our region."
Today's summit follows up an Economic Development Forum in Miami in June 2007 where Louisiana officials met with Florida investors, construction companies and others about project opportunities in New Orleans.
The Office of the Federal Coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding has been engaged in facilitating and streamlining the recovery effort, providing key federal support and resources to state and local leaders, as well as reinforcing the federal government's commitment to the people of the Gulf Coast.
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This page was last reviewed/modified on November 7, 2008.