Richmond Responds to Impact of Hurricane Isaac

Aug 31, 2012

“It is ironic that the week we remember the devastation and impact of Hurricane Katrina seven years ago, we were called to respond to another natural disaster of substantial proportion—Hurricane Isaac,” said Congressman Richmond.  “They were certainly two different storms, with substantially different impacts, however, they both placed a strain on our people, property, and infrastructure.  I would like to recognize the hard work of our local leaders, emergency personnel, and first responders before and after the storm.  Their preparation and responsiveness has made a tremendous difference."

“We have demonstrated time and time again that we are a resilient people.  Our legacy is not defined by the severity of disasters like Betsy, Katrina, Ike, and Gustav, but by how we continue to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and rebuild.  Hurricane Isaac will be no different, except this time I am committed to making sure the federal government is a better partner in our recovery.  I have had productive conversations with our federal representatives, including FEMA Administrator Fugate, and will continue to push until our region is made whole after this unfortunate event."

"Hurricane Isaac proved that the $12 billion federal investment protecting the greater New Orleans levee system was money well spent.  I know it may be hard to believe for those that experienced flooding, but the work of the Corps of Engineers prevented our situation from being worse.  While the levees surrounding New Orleans performed well, Hurricane Isaac illustrates the fact that flood protection in southeast Louisiana still has a ways to go.  The levee that would have protected places like LaPlace in St. John Parish was authorized by Congress in 1971, but the funds did not follow.  I am committed to securing the resources we need to keep our families safe."

“I would like to remind everyone that my office stands ready to provide assistance during the recovery.”