What: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District and its partners at the State of Louisiana and local levee districts will conduct the 2013 Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System Emergency Preparedness and Response Exercises on May 15 and May 16. Throughout each day, emergency teams will operate the system’s major structures in response to prearranged tropical weather scenarios.
Media is invited to view the exercises at the following locations and times:
The New Orleans District Commander will only be available to discuss the exercises at the times specified. State and levee district partners will also be available for interviews.
When / Where: Wednesday May 15, 2013
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Pontchartrain Levee District – Canadian National Railroad Swing Gate
St. Charles Parish, LA
Access Option 1: Nearest intersection: James Drive West and Widgeon Drive
From New Orleans, take I-10 to Airport Exit, 223B, turn right on Airline, turn right onto James Drive West. Follow James Drive West until you meet gravel road.
Access Option 2: Nearest address: St. Rose Travel Center, 10405 E. Airline Hwy.
Take unnamed gravel road across from the truck stop. Follow to the end and turn right, continue on gravel road, cross over bridge and continue. You will run into the railroad tracks.
10:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Orleans Avenue Outfall Canal Interim Control Structure
7597 Marconi Drive
New Orleans, LA 70124
(Note: Col. Ed Fleming has a scheduling conflict; Mike Stack, Chief of Emergency Management will be available for interviews.)
2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Inner Harbor Navigation Canal Surge Barrier
15235 Intracoastal Drive
(Alternate address for GPS:14900 Intracoastal Drive)
New Orleans, LA 70129
When / Where: Thursday May 16, 2013
10:00 - 11:30 a.m. GIWW West Closure Complex
833 W. Walker Road
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Any media planning to attend this event should RSVP to Rachel Rodi at (504) 862-2587 or send e-mail at rachel.rodi@usace.army.mil no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 14, 2013. Attendees are required to wear long pants and closed-toe substantial shoes to enter sites.