Sen. Landrieu, Rep. Richmond and Mayor Landrieu Announce $37M for Hurricane Recovery

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond, D-La., and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu today announced $37 million in federal funding for hurricane recovery efforts at the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO). These grants are funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance Program.

“Whether it’s a rainstorm or a hurricane, the city and its residents rely on having a drainage system that can handle a large downpour of water,” Sen. Landrieu said. “These grants are part of continuing efforts to rebuild the New Orleans infrastructure stronger than before Hurricane Katrina.”

“I am committed to fighting to ensure that every community in Louisiana is fully recovered from the impact of Hurricane Katrina,” said Representative Richmond. “I am proud that federal funds announced today will address the much needed repairs to the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board, something that is essential to the quality of life for our residents.”

“These recovery dollars are vitally important to ensuring that the Sewerage and Water Board continues to provide essential services to the people of New Orleans,” Mayor Landrieu said. “As we continue to rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, FEMA continues to be an important partner in our recovery.”

Today’s grants include:

$37 million to the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) for restoration of pavement associated with excavations and estimated construction inspection fees. Hurricane Katrina caused catastrophic damage to the sewer collection and treatment system under the jurisdiction of SWBNO, resulting in the disruption of service. This project has been prepared to expand the scope of point repair work for the sewer system to include all eligible remaining repairs resulting from the complete testing and evaluation of the 23,100 manholes and sewers impacted by the disaster event. Costs are based on pricing from existing repair contracts that were competitively bid and include completed work to date and estimated work to be completed.