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| FEMA adopts AIA recommendations for gulf coast rebuilding As the first anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches, there is movement at both the federal and local level that aims to assist displaced Gulf Coast residents. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently announced new guidelines to address transitional housing concerns. In addition, the New Orleans chapter of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is organizing a Housing Summit to help educate homeowners on how to properly rebuild and restore their homes, as well as advise them on ways to wisely spend the monies they became eligible for through the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Program. The summit is scheduled to take place at the New Orleans Convention Center on September 29th and 30th. FEMA will use the $400 million funding from the bill for projects that create transitional modular housing for hurricane victims with improved hurricane resistance and can be constructed quickly, using prefabricated panelized walls. The initial concept is based on "Katrina cottages, " designed by architects that can withstand 140-mph winds, resulting in a more comfortable, and affordable alternative to a trailer. write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Construction News :: home page |