Definition

A building collapse is the sudden structural failing, partially or entirely, of a building, threatening human life and health. When internal load-bearing structural elements fail, a building will collapse into itself, and exterior walls pulled into the falling structure. This scenario may be caused by construction activity, an earthquake or fire, and may result in a dense debris field with a small footprint. Alternatively, if an explosion or natural forces such as weather cause structural failure, the building may collapse in an outward direction, resulting in a less dense and more scattered debris field.

Location and Extent of the Building Collapse

The potential for this threat exists throughout the City in all settings. Building inspectors and Code Enforcement officials are most familiar with this hazard.  The impact of termites city-wide, combined with the very wet climate of New Orleans, creates rot that increases property maintenance costs and can cause structural failures. Building codes and enforcement, as well as the work of the New Orleans Mosquito, Termite, and Rodent Control Board (MRTCB), are part of the mitigation efforts to address this hazard.

Severity of Building Collapse

The scope and size of buildings and the exact cause of the collapse mean that there are varying degrees of severity in this emergency. In the worst-case scenario, a large, multi-story, mixed-use commercial and residential building collapses in a densely populated area of the city, such as the French Quarter. This could be due to the age of the building, impact from other hazards, or manmade action. On a smaller scale, there have been collapses of single-story uninhabited dwellings that were blighted or severely damaged from storm activity. 

Previous Occurrences of Building Collapse

Building collapses are frequently the result of another incident or event, such as resulting from a fire or tornadic activity. Partial building collapses are reported several times a year.

September 2013 - a house in the 100 block of Mound Avenue was being elevated to mitigate against flood losses. Contractors for the property had lifted the home about six feet in the air when it collapsed, severely injuring two construction workers. Due to the extensive structural damage to the house, it was declared a total loss and demolished. 

October 2014 - a three-story building in the 800 block of Royal in the French Quarter collapsed. As a result of the deteriorating brick and mortar, the building was over 200 years old. It housed three apartments and commercial space. There were no injuries. The building was a complete loss. 

July 2015 - a blighted property, slated for demolition, collapsed after a storm. The city was pursuing blight judgment against the property, located at 3516 Delachaise, which had been vacant since Hurricane Katrina. There were no injuries.

October 12, 2019 - On the morning of October 12, 2019, the Hard Rock Hotel collapsed, killing three people. The cost to the City of New Orleans as of December of 2019 was in excess of $11 million. According to WWL, the local CBS affiliate, “ most of the city's costs incurred by the collapse are tied to changing RTA routes, making repairs to Rampart Street, and paying crews to work at the site.”[1] This amount is not inclusive of the disruption of business or the broader financial costs. Due to ongoing investigations, demolition, and subsequent legal actions, a full accounting of this event cannot be developed at this time.

Probability

For this hazard, we are unable to calculate the probability due to insufficient data.

Hazard Impacts

Impact on Life and Property

The monetary loss can be on property owners, the private sector, and/or the public (taxpayers). Estimates can range from insurance deductibles associated with insured losses to millions of dollars that may burden taxpayers if property owners are unable to cover the debris removal and disposal. Monetary losses may or may not be recoverable from insurance or federal disaster resources.

Vulnerability

Given the climate and the prevalence of a number of insects and rodents that compromise the structural integrity of structures, there is a high vulnerability to building collapse in the City. Older structures are generally at higher risk of structural failure.

Relevant Actions

Structural Projects

Action 2015.2.1

Improve drainage infrastructure through measures in high flood risk areas including, but not limited to, the upgrade and improvement of culvert design and construction and retention and detention areas.

Improve drainage infrastructure through measures including the upgrade and improvement of canals and drainage pipes and installation of retention and detention areas including green infrastructure.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Infrastructure Failure, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Department of Public Works), SWBNO	Support Agencies:	Cost: $2,000,000,000+	Funding source: FEMA, Army Corps of Engineers, City of New Orleans Capital Improvements	Emergency Support Function: ESF 3

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Structural Projects

Action 2015.2.2

Continue implementing funded drainage improvement projects, including post construction maintenance and monitoring. This project will reduce pressure on the existing piping system. Benefits of this project will include beautification, improved recreational areas, flood mitigation, and social cohesion.

Continue implementing drainage improvement projects that could include St Roch Streetscape Improvements, Mirabeau Water Park, Mac 35/Hall/Youth Study Center, Pontilly Project green infrastructure interventions, and Hagan Lafitte drainage upgrades.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Infrastructure Failure, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Capital Projects)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 4600000	Funding source: FEMA, Army Corps of Engineers, City of New Orleans Capital Improvements	Emergency Support Function: ESF 3

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Structural Projects

Action 2015.2.3

Install rain gardens, storm water runoff filtration, and water retention systems along streets to reduce subsidence and flooding.

Develop and advocate the necessary site design and landscape standards for streets, neighborhoods, and building sites.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Department of Public Works)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 1250000	Funding source: FEMA, HUD, Private Sector, City of New Orleans Capital Improvements	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Prevention

Action 2015.2.5

Promote greater use of pervious concrete.

Include pervious concrete in city-contracted road work and other projects, education through NOLA Ready for homeowners.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Department of Public Works)	Support Agencies:	Cost: staff time	Funding source: Staff time	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Structural Projects

Action 2015.2.7

Coordinate with USACE and SLFPA regarding the levee system improvements and maintenance.

Ensure there is operational coordination between Orleans Parish, the US Army Corps of Engineers, and the Southeast Louisana Flood Protection Authorities East and West around levee upgrades and ongoing maintenance.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Infrastructure Failure, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: Staff time	Funding source: Staff time	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Natural Resource Protection

Action 2015.3.1

Engage with regional and statewide efforts for the protection of coastal wetlands – including coordination regarding wetlands policy.

Utilize Regional Coordination as a strategy, within which there are specific actions: Participate in LWI, Coordinate with CPRA, assign staff to participate in SLFPA/USACE strategic partnership meetings, etc.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure (levee failure)
Goal: Goal 3: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the natural environment including wetland restoration and recognition of New Orleans as a coastal city.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Reslience & Sustainability), Tulane University Center for Environmental Law	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Natural Resource Protection

Action 2015.3.2

Implement the Golden Triangle Marsh Creation Project.

Implement the Golden Triangle Marsh Creation Project, a project which creates marsh within the boundaries of Bayou Savage, the largest urban wildlife refuge in the United States, leading to an increase in the refuge’s wildlife and fish habitat. Monitor progress on construction of the 1st increment which is funded through RESTORE and will restore 600 acres of marsh. Advocate on state and federal level for additional funding to complete the full project as identfied in the CMP and MRGO restoration plan.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 3: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the natural environment including wetland restoration and recognition of New Orleans as a coastal city.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 4500000	Funding source: FEMA, EPA, State Capital Oulay, Private Sector	Emergency Support Function: ESF 11

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Natural Resource Protection

Action 2015.3.3

Advocate on state and federal level for additional funding to complete the full Biloxi Marsh Living Shoreline project as identfied in the CMP.

Advocate for additional funding for the proposed Biloxi Marsh Living Shoreline project. If implemented in the future, the project would create approximately 47,000 feet of bioengineered oyster barrier reef fringing the marshes, which would reduce shoreline erosion and recession, prevent further marsh degradation, promote community resilience, and enhance local fisheries and oyster production. Monitor progress on construction of the 1st increment which is funded through RESTORE .

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 3: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the natural environment including wetland restoration and recognition of New Orleans as a coastal city.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: Low	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 3500000	Funding source: FEMA, EPA, State Capital Oulay, Private Sector	Emergency Support Function: ESF 11

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Natural Resource Protection

Action 2015.3.4

Coordinate with State and Federal partners to implement the NO East Landbridge restoration project

Work with CPRA to get E&D complete on larger components of the marsh restoration and shoreline protection, as identified in the CMP and MRGO restoration plans. Advocate to support state effort to secure funding (likely NRDA) for construction.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 3: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the natural environment including wetland restoration and recognition of New Orleans as a coastal city.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 17500000	Funding source: FEMA, State Capital Outlay, Private Sector, EPA	Emergency Support Function: ESF 11

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2015.4.1

Educate the public about storm water management.

Educate the public about their role in keeping drains and culverts clear. Distribute information on lot-scale mitigation strategies like Green Infrastructure; promoting the work of partner NGOs that have programs to assist homeowners with implementing these activities

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 225000	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2015.4.2

Promote the use of building methods which are hazard resistant and built above the current building code standards (e.g. higher wind rated roofing).

Educate the public through NOLA Ready about these methods. Explore incentive programs and financing options for homeowners and builders (w/ GNO Inc, FANO, Insurance commisioner, etc.).

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes, Storm Surge
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2015.4.3

Develop a small business resilience program.

Assist business owners in developing COOP plans and promote the NOLA Ready Business Continuity Guide.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes, Thunderstorms
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Low	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Prevention

Action 2015.4.4

Develop and maintain a comprehensive GIS database including data on properties, hazard areas, service districts, public works facilities, transportation infrastructure, and vulnerable populations.

Develop a process and requirements for interdepartmental coordination to keep the database maintained. E.G. Annual review and updates of SDE including critical facilities, new hazard data, etc.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes, Thunderstorms
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2015.4.5

Require mandatory training in floodplain regulations for all building officials.

Identify available training courses that meet this requirement. Have CAO identify which job positions would be affected. Work with Civil Service to add this to requirements.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Low	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Safety & Permits)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 100000	Funding source: City of New Orleans, FEMA	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5, ESF 7

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Property Protection

Action 2015.4.6

Evaluate the implementation of voluntary incentive and reward programs.

Encourage builders and contractors to go beyond minimum requirements.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Community Development)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: City of New Orleans, FEMA	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5, ESF 7

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Property Protection

Action 2015.5.2

Improve asset management to assist with the documentation of disaster-related damages.

Continue use of the Survey123 asset management apps; complete annual inspection of all city-owned facilities to support post-event damage assessments.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Infrastructure Failure , Coastal Erosion, Tornadoes, Subsidence
Goal: Goal 5: To promote, implement, and sustain mitigation measures in Orleans Parish in order to reduce and manage risks to human life, the environment, and property.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, Property Management, Safety & Permits)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Property Protection

Action 2015.5.3

Pursue an acquisition/buy-out program wherein property owners could elect to move out of high risk area to a lower risk area.

Pursue an acquisition/buy-out program wherein property owners could elect to move out of high risk area to a lower risk area. Acquired properties would be rezoned as open space and maintained by PPW as passive recreational areas.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 5: To promote, implement, and sustain mitigation measures in Orleans Parish in order to reduce and manage risks to human life, the environment, and property.
Status:	Timeframe: 3-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 1090000000	Funding source: HUD, FEMA, State of Louisiana	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5, ESF 7

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Prevention

Action 2015.5.5

Consolidate Damage Assessment procedures and maintain a database of all properties that sustain damage as a result of a hazard, including critical facilities.

Include this information as part of the City's overall GIS database.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 5: To promote, implement, and sustain mitigation measures in Orleans Parish in order to reduce and manage risks to human life, the environment, and property.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Low	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Prevention

Action 2015.5.6

Explore alternative financing methods to support flood mitigating projects, such as a rebate program

Explore alternative financing methods to support flood mitigating projects, such as a P3s, Environmental Impact bonds, homeowner/builder rebate programs, and others.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 5: To promote, implement, and sustain mitigation measures in Orleans Parish in order to reduce and manage risks to human life, the environment, and property.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness), SWBNO	Support Agencies:	Cost: Staff Time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5, ESF 7

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Prevention

Action 2015.5.7

Engage with regional hazard mitigation planning efforts.

Coordinate with other parishes and local plans to ensure consistency and coordinate actions with neighboring jurisdictions.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 5: To promote, implement, and sustain mitigation measures in Orleans Parish in order to reduce and manage risks to human life, the environment, and property.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Prevention

Action 2015.5.8

Assist other local agencies with hazard mitigation plans in the implementation of actions from their plans.

Assist local agencies with project scoping, grant management, stakeholder coordination, and other support functions as needed to implement hazard mitigation plan actions.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 5: To promote, implement, and sustain mitigation measures in Orleans Parish in order to reduce and manage risks to human life, the environment, and property.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: Medium
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Structural Projects

Action 2015.6.2

Continue the Southeast Louisiana (SELA) Drainage program to reduce flood damages in the City of New Orleans and surrounding parishes.

The SELA Drainage program will be accomplished by constructing new pumping stations and better drainage canals throughout our city. The program was authorized in 1996 by the United States Congress and administered under a project cooperation agreement between the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Infrastructure Failure, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence
Goal: Goal 6: To protect Orleans Parish and the surrounding region from the effects of natural and manmade hazards, ensuring community continuity in the event of such hazards.
Status:	Timeframe: 5-10 years	Priority: Med+G95:P98ium	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: $2,000,000,000+	Funding source: FEMA, Army Corps of Engineers, City of New Orleans Capital Improvements	Emergency Support Function: ESF 3

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Prevention

Action 2015.6.3

Develop pre-disaster Disaster Recovery Plans.

Develop a New Orleans pre-disaster Recovery Plan.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 6: To protect Orleans Parish and the surrounding region from the effects of natural and manmade hazards, ensuring community continuity in the event of such hazards.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City staff time	Funding source: CNO General Fund	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Emergency Services Measures

Action 2015.6.4

Install emergency generators at all emergency shelters and critical facilities.

Ensure emergency generators are running properly at all existing critical facilities and emergency shelters.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes, Extreme Heat
Goal: Goal 6: To protect Orleans Parish and the surrounding region from the effects of natural and manmade hazards, ensuring community continuity in the event of such hazards.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: High
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: $250,000- $800,000 per site	Funding source: City of New Orleans Capital Improvements, FEMA, Sewage and Water Board, Private Sector	Emergency Support Function: ESF 12

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Emergency Services Measures

Action 2015.6.5

Map the interior of critical facilities to assist first responders in the event of an incident.

Mapping of the interior facilities for all schools has been completed, continue to expand to other public facilities. Establish criteria for which buildings should provide floorplans to NOHSEP.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes
Goal: Goal 6: To protect Orleans Parish and the surrounding region from the effects of natural and manmade hazards, ensuring community continuity in the event of such hazards.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: Low
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: 250000	Funding source: City of New Orleans, FEMA	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Prevention

Action 2020.2.10

Solar for All

Make solar power a realistic and viable option for residential and commercial property owners and city-owned properties in Orleans Parish to increase energy security, reduce energy costs, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Hazard: Extreme Heat, Winter Weather, Infrastructure Failure (Power Outages)
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time	Funding source: CNO General Fund, State and Federal Grants, Philanthropic Grants, Private Financing	Emergency Support Function: ESF 12

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Property Protection

Action 2020.2.11

Integrate stormwater solutions into community infrastructure projects (e.g. designate parking areas in neutral grounds to avoid damage to trees and underground infrastructure).

Implement citywide urban design standards intended to guide the community's response to stormwater management. Ensure the design guidelines and solutions consider the location of utilities and green infrastructure to prevent accidental and unintended damage to City facilities, and improve safety and mobility.

Hazard: Flooding, Tornadoes, Tropical Cyclones, Severe Thunderstorms, Winter Weather, Active Threats, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 2-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time, Contract Labor	Funding source: Homeland Security, FEMA, Health and Human Services	Emergency Support Function: ESF 2, ESF 4, ESF 6, ESF 8, ESF 10

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Structural Projects

Action 2020.2.12

Encourage voluntary installation of residential sprinkler systems. Create an incentive program for the voluntary installation of residential sprinklers in key areas.

Consider incentives for residential sprinklers for existing structures, renovated structures, and new construction.

Hazard: Winter Weather, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe:	Priority: Low	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Fire Department)	Support Agencies:	Cost:	Funding source:	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Natural Resource Protection

Action 2020.3.7

Maintain Former Recovery 1 Landfill and implement environmental protection of Bayou Sauvage.

Ensure the former Recovery 1 landfill site located adjacent to Bayou Sauvage, a National Wildlife Refuge, is properly and safely maintained over time to prevent contamination of Bayou Sauvage.

Hazard: Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 3: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the natural environment including wetland restoration and recognition of New Orleans as a coastal city.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-2 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Sanitation)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time, Contract Labor	Funding source: CNO General Fund, EPA Grants, other State and Federal Grants	Emergency Support Function: ESF 3, ESF 11

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2020.4.1

Complete a job study to institutionalize floodplain management training as a requirement for key positions. Provide training in floodplain management principles for local officials and increase the number of Certified Floodplain Managers on City staff.

Work with Civil Service Commission to require building officials employed at the city to become Certified Floodplain Managers (CFM) through ASFPM. Work with SHMO to schedule trainings in Orleans Parish. Explore adding CFM as a requirement for resilience officers, others.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-2 years	Priority: Low	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Civil Service)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time	Funding source: CNO General Fund, State and Federal Grants	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2020.4.10

Develop a tool with City monitoring data for the Automated Flood Warning System (AFWS) similar to the education/data monitoring tools that federal agencies use.

Create an online, interactive tool utilizing City monitoring data around hazard mitigation initiatives for public use and education. This tool can be modeled after federal agency data monitoring tools. Ensure the tool is accessible to all, including K-12 audiences.

Hazard: Flooding, Tornadoes, Tropical Cyclones, Severe Thunderstorms, Extreme Heat, Subsidence, Winter Weather, Coastal Erosion, Infectious Disease Outbreak, Active Threats, Infrastructure Failure, Hazardous Materials, Economic Shock
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 3-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time, Contract Labor	Funding source: City capital bond funds, GOMESA, CDBG, CDBG-NDR, Sewerage and Water Board, State capital outlay, FHWA, FEMA-HMGP, US Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA	Emergency Support Function: ESF 1, ESF 3

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2020.4.3

Leverage Resilience work to create workforce development opportunities.

Work with the WIB and JOB1 to build out a strategy for workforce development in the field of resiliency. Leverage local resilience and mitigation efforts as opportunities to train the local workforce in 'green' jobs, such as sustainable construction, green infrastructure, adaptive reuse of demolition materials, energy and carbon capture and storage, and water quality technicians. Make sure all angles of workforce development are being addressed.

Hazard: Flooding, Storm Surge, Tornadoes, Tropical Cyclones, Severe Thunderstorms, Extreme Heat, Subsidence, Winter Weather, Coastal Erosion, Infectious Disease Outbreak, Active Threats, Infrastructure Failure, Hazardous Materials, Economic Shock
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: High	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time	Funding source: CNO General Fund, State and Federal Grants, Philanthropic Grants	Emergency Support Function: ESF 15

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2020.4.9

Provide financial incentives to make mitigation accessible to all.

Provide financial incentives at the City, Parish, or State level to make hazard mitigation improvements to private property accessible to all residents. Examples of incentives include offering low loan insurance rates for renovations, insurance discounts, home interest rate reductions, and SBA loan guarantee programs.

Hazard: Flooding, Tornadoes, Tropical Cyclones, Severe Thunderstorms, Extreme Heat, Subsidence, Winter Weather, Coastal Erosion, Infectious Disease Outbreak, Active Threats, Infrastructure Failure, Hazardous Materials, Economic Shock
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time	Funding source: State and Federal Grants	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5, ESF 7

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Public Education & Awareness

Action 2020.5.32

Educate the public about building methods which are hazard resistant and built above the current building code standards. Provide information on hazards and mitigation resources, and publicize success stories.

Coordinate public information and education with NOLA Ready. Provide stakeholders with information about building standards, incentive programs and financing options for homeowners and builders (w/ GNO Inc, FANO, Insurance commisioner, etc.). Publicize succes stories

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclones, Coastal Erosion, Subsidence, Infrastructure Failure, Tornadoes, Storm Surge
Goal: Goal 4: Maximize the involvement of individuals, businesses, and groups in risk reduction measures through education/outreach on hazard mitigation appropriate to all groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority:
Lead Agencies: NORA	Support Agencies:	Cost: Staff time	Funding source: TBD	Emergency Support Function: ESF 5

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Prevention

Action 2020.6.1

Establish Neighborhood Resilience Hubs to provide hazard mitigation information and resources.

Build neighborhood resilience hubs that are focused on community-serving initiatives. Resilience hubs provide an opportunity to build local community power and leadership, can support neighborhood residents before, during, or after a natural or manmade hazard event, and can ensure timely resource and service distribution during disasters. Include information on types of disasters, family disaster plans, business continuity plans, and basic mitigation projects. Give presentations to civic groups, church groups, business groups, etc.

Hazard: Flooding, Tornadoes, Tropical Cyclones, Severe Thunderstorms, Extreme Heat, Subsidence, Winter Weather, Coastal Erosion, Infectious Disease Outbreak, Active Threats, Infrastructure Failure, Hazardous Materials, Economic Shock
Goal: Goal 6: To protect Orleans Parish and the surrounding region from the effects of natural and manmade hazards, ensuring community continuity in the event of such hazards.
Status:	Timeframe: 3-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: CNO (Office of Resilience & Sustainability, Neighborhood Engagement Office)	Support Agencies:	Cost: City Staff Time	Funding source: CNO General Fund, State and Federal Grants, Philanthropic Grants	Emergency Support Function: ESF 7, ESF 14

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Prevention

Action 2020.6.4

HANO with assistance from CNO (Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness) will development of an All-Hazards Emergency Operations Plan for public housing within the City.

Create and adopt an All-Hazard Emergency Operations Plan that builds on the 2020 HANO Hurricane Emergency Preparedness Plan with the help of NOHSEP.

Hazard: Flooding, Tornadoes, Tropical Cyclones, Severe Thunderstorms, Extreme Heat, Subsidence, Winter Weather, Coastal Erosion, Infectious Disease Outbreak, Active Threats, Infrastructure Failure, Hazardous Materials, Economic Shock
Goal: Goal 6: To protect Orleans Parish and the surrounding region from the effects of natural and manmade hazards, ensuring community continuity in the event of such hazards.
Status:	Timeframe: 1-5 years	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority:
Lead Agencies: HANO	Support Agencies:	Cost: TBD	Funding source: TBD	Emergency Support Function:

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Structural Projects

Action 2020.SWBNO.1

Generators and Transfer Switics at SPS

  See 6.8 Sewage & Water Board Master Plan.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclone, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: TBD	Priority: High	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: SWBNO Operations	Support Agencies:	Cost: 25000000	Funding source: PDM/SWBNO	Emergency Support Function: ESF 12

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Emergency Services Measures

Action 2020.SWBNO.2

Safe House and Resiliency center

  See 6.5.2 Sewage & Water Board Master Plan.

Hazard: All
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: TBD	Priority: Medium	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: SWBNO Emergency Mgmt	Support Agencies:	Cost: 21000000	Funding source: PDM/SWBNO	Emergency Support Function: ESF 6

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Structural Projects

Action 2020.SWBNO.4

Power House

  See 6.7 Sewage & Water Board Master Plan.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclone, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: 44560	Priority: High	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: SWBNO Operations	Support Agencies:	Cost: 213000000	Funding source: HMGP/SWBNO	Emergency Support Function: ESF 12

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Structural Projects

Action 2020.SWBNO.7

Upgrade and improve the SWBNO Drainage System, including Canals Upgrades, Pump Station Rehabilitation, Pump Upgrades, and Power Controls.

  See 6.6.6 Sewage & Water Board Master Plan.

Hazard: Flooding, Tropical Cyclone, Infrastructure Failure
Goal: Goal 2: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the built environment including current and future structures; critical facilities; historic structures; and infrastructure, including communications infrastructure.
Status:	Timeframe: On Going	Priority: High	2015 Priority: N/A
Lead Agencies: SWBNO	Support Agencies:	Cost: 1000000000	Funding source: USACE	Emergency Support Function: ESF 3

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Prevention

Action 2020.Tulane.4

Develop and Implement a power resilience strategy.

Develop and Implement a power resilience strategy to mitigate impacts of extreme heat and power outages. This strategy may include such actions as installing backup generators, co-generation, and energy efficient building designs/retrofits

Hazard: Extreme Heat, Infrastructure Failure (power outages)
Goal: Goal 1: Reduce risk and vulnerability to the human environment including cultural resources, homeowners, renters, visitors, and transient populations.
Status:	Timeframe: 2-5 years	Priority:	2015 Priority:
Lead Agencies: Tulane University Office of Planning and Office of Capital Projects	Support Agencies:	Cost: Unknown	Funding source: TBD	Emergency Support Function:

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