The “Crescent Rising” program will begin with a free demolition initiative for condemned homes. This project will jumpstart the economies of New Orleans’ ravaged parishes by allowing homeowners to begin the process of rebuilding their homes. Once homes have been safely demolished, homeowners will be able to rebuild, and these communities will repopulate and revitalize. By assisting New Orleans with the most critical first step, we will foster an environment of sustainable growth and opportunity.




The Reggie White Foundation (RWF), through an extensive study, has recognized the need to accelerate the demolition process in the New Orleans area. After completing our research into the current demolition process, it became painfully evident that change is needed. To truly help the citizens begin the process of rebuilding their lives, the RWF has begun working with FEMA, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Orleans Parish City Council to create the “Free Demolition Program”.

This program will accomplish the following goals:
1. Help the people of New Orleans rebuild their homes and lives.
2. Empower the citizens of New Orleans to make common sense decisions based on common sense laws.
3. Streamline government regulations and use them to help the people of New Orleans, not hinder them.
4. Initiate the rebirth of New Orleans.

Why the Demolition Process is Moving so Slowly

These regulations are overly restrictive and millions of dollars are being wasted on their enforcement. A private organization such as the Reggie White Foundation is not subject to either of the above government regulations. Establishing a program with a private organization will ensure the demolition process takes place at an increased rate.

We have researched these rules and regulations that are causing a delay in the demolition process. Fortunately, we found these same rules and regulations do not apply to our “Crescent Rising Program.” The current timeframe under the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers is six months for a home demolition to be processed and completed. Our program will allow for the demolition process to be completed within seven days.


The NESHAP (Asbestos) Regulations
When federal funds pay for demolition, the process falls under the requirements of NESHAP.

What is the purpose of the Asbestos NESHAP regulation?
The purpose is to protect the public health by minimizing the release of asbestos when facilities which contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are demolished or renovated.

What is a "facility?"
As defined in the regulation, a "facility" is any institutional, commercial, public, industrial or residential structure, installation or building (including any structure, installation or building containing condominiums, or individual dwelling units operated as a residential cooperative, but excluding residential buildings having four or fewer dwelling units); any ship; or any active or inactive waste disposal site. Any building, structure or installation that contains a loft used as a dwelling is not considered residential. Any structure, installation or building that was previously subject to the Asbestos NESHAP is not excluded, regardless of its current use or function.”

When individual homeowners initiate the demolition, the NESHAP regulations do not apply.

::   Are mobile homes or mobile structures regulated by the Asbestos NESHAP? No. Mobile homes, used as single-family dwellings, are not subject to Asbestos NESHAP.

::   Are single-family private residences regulated by the Asbestos NESHAP?
No. For a complete explanation, please review:

http://www.epa.gov/region04/air/asbestos/asbqa.htm

The SHPO (Historical Review) Regulations

::    When federal funds pay for demolition the process falls under the requirements of SHPO: “Section 106 review takes its name from Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. This section sets up a review process through the states to avoid federal projects adversely impacting historic properties. A federal project is any project that may be carried out by a federal agency; is receiving federal funds, a federal loan, or a federal loan guarantee; or may involve a federal license or permit.”

::    When individual homeowners initiate the demolition (such as requesting free demolition) SHPO regulations do not apply: “When Congress established the National Register it recognized the importance of private property and local control. Thus, the Register is an honorary designation that does not exercise any control over private property.”

http://www.crt.state.la.us/hp/sect106.htm

The above-mentioned regulations are impeding the demolition process. However, the homeowners impacted can request a free demolition. The “Crescent Rising Program” will allow homeowners to request and receive our services, empowering them to begin rebuilding their homes and lives immediately.



We will coordinate all efforts to confirm all parties are in compliance of local, state and federal regulations. In addition, a “Free Demolition Request Form” will be generated and will serve to:

1. Incorporate copies of the homeowners’ state-issued identification cards.
2. Obtain a copy of the deed of the home to be demolished.
3. Complete a Pre-Demolition Checklist generated by the DEQ. A copy of this form is available for review.
4. Process requests received via interactive website and / or toll free number. Demolition will occur in the order received.
5. Ensure the demolition process is in full compliance with DEQ procedures.
6. Receive permission to utilize the name, picture(s) and / or stories of the homeowner for marketing and public relations purposes.

Support for the “Crescent Rising Program” by the Louisiana DEQ

The RWF will coordinate with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Our past experience with this type of approach is invaluable. Historically, DEQ requirements have been very reasonable. They include a three-day inspection period, allowing the DEQ to inspect the house before it is demolished. The DEQ will require each demolition performed by the volunteer crews to follow the guidelines established in their “Demo-Prep Checklist”. No homes will be demolished by the Reggie White Foundation without proper consent and strict adherence to all DEQ requirements.

On Monday, November 19, 2006, DEQ approved the RWF proposal for demolition