FEMA To Support Stricter Building Code

To help local governments enforce a new statewide building code, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is contributing $14 million to the state of Louisiana. State and federal officials expect the new stringent code to reduce insurance costs.

1 minute read

March 12, 2007, 6:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg

"The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a $14 million program to help local governments implement the state's tougher new building code, Gov. Kathleen Blanco said Monday."

"Proponents say the statewide building code, which went into effect Jan. 1, will help bring new insurance companies to the state and thus increase competition that will lower prices for policies."

"'In all my meetings with sectors of the insurance industry, I have been told again and again that second only to reliable levees, implementing and enforcing our statewide building codes is a must-do for affordable insurance,' the governor said."

"State lawmakers passed the new code several weeks after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. It requires new construction to adhere to strict standards, such as thicker windows, braces for the building and roof straps - all aimed at helping the structure survive high winds."

FULL STORY: FEMA OKs $14 million for new code

Tuesday, March 6, 2007 in The Advocate

Infrastructure Louisiana

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.