Cameron Elementary School Auditorium to Benefit from FEMA Funds 

Release Date: December 14, 2006
Release Number: 1603-584

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NEW ORLEANS, La. -- More than $2 million was recently obligated for the construction of a new auditorium at the Cameron Elementary School , the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency announced today.

When Hurricane Rita swept through Louisiana last year, the school's auditorium was almost completely destroyed by high winds, rain and 15- to 20-foot storm surges. The floor of the auditorium, as well as the framing, seating and portions of the roof, were all that remained after the storm. The money obligated today will reimburse the parish for the new 9,900-square-foot auditorium, including its mechanical, electrical and acoustical systems. In addition, all data and communications systems will be replaced, and the new facility will be well above the current floodplain levels. More money will be obligated in the future to replace the contents of the facility.

When projects are obligated by FEMA, the funds are transferred to the state. The state then draws down the monies and distributes them to the local applicants.  In addition, the state requires documentation from the applicant before disbursals are made.

The Public Assistance program works with state and local officials to fund recovery measures and the rebuilding of government buildings, roads and bridges, schools, water and sewer plants, recreational facilities owned by government agencies, some facilities owned by nonprofit agencies, and other publicly owned facilities. FEMA provides funding for projects to help restore them to their pre-disaster function and capacity. In order for the process to be successful, federal, state and local partners coordinate to draw up project plans, fund these projects and oversee their completion.

FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident, initiates mitigation activities and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA works closely with state and local emergency managers, law enforcement personnel, firefighters and other first responders. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 19-Dec-2006 10:34:34