Michigan’s new energy laws, Public Act 341 and Public Act 342, take effect today and uniquely position the state to adapt to market forces while removing barriers to a greener and more secure energy future.

NEW ORLEANS – (RealEstateRama) — The City of New Orleans announced that it has completed work to increase security measures at the Municipal Auditorium (1201 St. Peter St.). In an effort to secure all access points to the building, the City reinforced all doors, windows and HVAC units with steel panels. Additionally, a 24-hour security detail is stationed at the Municipal Auditorium to prevent illegal trespassing on the property.

The Municipal Auditorium was heavily damaged during Hurricane Katrina. When Mayor Landrieu took office in 2010, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had only obligated $7 million toward its restoration. Under the Mayor’s leadership, the City went back to the drawing board and has since secured $41.7 million, but that is not enough to fully repair the building, which the City estimates to be more than $80 million.

On February 21, 2017, the City received a final determination letter from FEMA denying the request for the full funding. On Tuesday, March 21, the City filed a brief with FEMA to officially request arbitration in order to resolve this dispute. The City and FEMA will participate in a hearing before an arbitration panel, who will make the final decision on the funding for repairs.

The current scope of work is intended to remediate environmental hazards in the building, stabilize the building shell, clear the building of all debris, and condition the building to prevent future damage.

Upon the conclusion of the arbitration process, the City will conduct a market analysis to determine a best and final use for the facility. The City will then propose a redevelopment strategy for the building to return it to commerce like the City has done with St. Roch Market and the former World Trade Center Building/Four Seasons project.