[StBernard] Governor Blanco, LSU officials break groundfor state emergency shelter at LSU AgCenter

[Westley Annis]

Governor Blanco, LSU officials break ground for state emergency shelter at LSU AgCenter


ALEXANDRIA - Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco joined Louisiana State University and other officials to break ground today for the Louisiana Emergency Shelter at the LSU AgCenter's Dean Lee Research Station.

Located just south of the LSU-Alexandria campus, the $26 million climate-controlled shelter is being built to provide a place for citizens seeking refuge during emergencies such as hurricanes and other disasters. The 230,000-square-foot facility is designed to accommodate 3,500 people.

"This state run shelter is the first of its kind in Louisiana, and will help to assure our citizens have a safe haven, no matter where they live or what the emergency may be," Governor Blanco said. "It will also generate an economic impact for the area when not in use as a shelter. Central Louisiana has long served as a generous host to our coastal residents during hurricanes, and we thank you for your commitment in times of need. As the state continues solidifying our resources for emergencies, I urge all citizens to be personally prepared as we head into the most active time of our hurricane season."

The facility will be managed by the LSU AgCenter, except during an emergency when the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals will take control. It is being constructed adjacent to the new 60,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Dean Lee Research-Extension Livestock Facility and adjoined by a covered walkway.

"It is a privilege to have the shelter located at the LSU AgCenter's Dean Lee Research Station," said LSU AgCenter Chancellor Bill Richardson. "With the connecting livestock barn next door, it will enhance our ability to better serve the educational and economic needs of the agricultural community and others."

In addition, with the LSU-Alexandria campus now offering four-year degree programs and housing on campus, the emergency shelter also offers benefits to students and citizens of the area.

"I am excited about the shelter being built adjacent the campus," said Dr. Robert Cavanaugh, chancellor of the LSU-Alexandria campus. "The shelter will provide a place for graduation, conferences and conventions."

Like the LSU-Alexandria campus, the LSU AgCenter is one of the 11 institutions of the Louisiana State University System.

The LSU AgCenter, headquartered in Baton Rouge, provides educational services in every parish and conducts research that contributes to the economic development of the state. It plays an integral role in supporting agricultural industries, enhancing the environment, and improving the quality of life through its 4-H youth, family and community programs.

The emergency center is being constructed by Ratcliff Construction Co. of Alexandria.

For more information on the center or the livestock facilities, contact the LSU AgCenter's Dean Lee Research-Extension Center at (318) 473-6520 or visit the Web site at www.lsuagcenter.com <http://www.lsuagcenter.com> . 

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