FEMA dispenses $16.9M to rebuild N.O. firehouses

The Federal Emergency Management Agency today provided nearly $16.9 million to rebuild and repair New Orleans Fire Department facilities, including $3.1 million for rebuilding permanent facilities.

"FEMA knows the important role that these fire stations play in the recovery of New Orleans,"

The city has already solicited architectural and engineering services. Responses are under review and contracts for all fire stations should be awarded within weeks. FEMA will provide more money if necessary.

"As the city of New Orleans moves forward with its aggressive actions to rebuild the Crescent City, we are working together to synchronize federal, state and local efforts to streamline the reimbursement process and find other ways to help them in any way that we can," said Paul Rainwater, Louisiana Recovery Authority executive director.

FEMA coordinates federal aid for all domestic disasters, natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

Credit: CityBusiness Staff Report