St. Tammany Parish Still Rebuilding One Year after Katrina
Release Date: August 21, 2006
Release Number: 1603-540
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NEW ORLEANS, La. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is still working non-stop to assist in the recovery effort in St. Tammany Parish. One year after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, FEMA’s Public Assistance department has approved $225 million to 61 applicants, including schools, hospitals, jails and fire and police stations. In addition, over 9 million cubic yards of debris has been removed.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program oversees the funding for emergency services as well as the repair and rebuilding of infrastructure to its pre-disaster condition. Public Assistance employees work with the state and local governments to assess damages and provide technical assistance.
FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the State. It is the State’s responsibility to ensure that eligible sub-grantees receive these awards. Following the State’s review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide the grants to the sub-grantees.
Some of the most significant projects funded by FEMA in St. Tammany Parish include $1.8 million in overtime and extra personnel for its 13 fire districts during the early days of the disaster, and $381,000 to provide a temporary location for the parish’s health clinic. In addition, $414,000 was approved for Salmen High School, and $509,000 was approved to repair the parish libraries and replace contents.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 29-Aug-2006 16:05:47