New Orleans :: Tourism Updates
The Louisiana Superdome unfortunately sustained significant wind damage during Hurricane Katrina. Approximately 70% of the membrane covering the roof was destroyed, and there are numerous holes in the metal roof itself. There was also extensive damage to the HVAC, electrical systems, plumbing and escalators. The stadium seating, suites and offices are also significantly damaged.
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Louisiana Superdome
The Louisiana Superdome unfortunately sustained significant wind damage during Hurricane Katrina. Approximately 70% of the membrane covering the roof was destroyed, and there are numerous holes in the metal roof itself. There was also extensive damage to the HVAC, electrical systems, plumbing and escalators. The stadium seating, suites and offices are also significantly damaged.
However, rumors that the building will be torn down are completely untrue, according to Doug Thornton, SMG executive and former long-time general manager of the Superdome. Thornton says that the building remains structurally very sound.
Thornton is leading SMG and contractor assessment teams over the next week to begin the initial process of evaluating the condition of the Superdome and New Orleans Arena. However, removal of water and sediments from the buildings must be accomplished before comprehensive evaluation can be completed. Initial baseline evaluations have a target completion date of October 1, 2005.
Once drainage is accomplished and evaluation teams have done their job, the immediate and long-term future of the Superdome will be determined and announced. Decisions on the future of the building's renovation will rest with the Governor and Legislature and will be dependent on levels of damage as well as federal assistance.
The Superdome is unavailable for the entire NFL season. The New Orleans Saints have arranged to play three games in the Alamo Dome in San Antonio and four more games in Tiger Stadium at LSU in Baton Rouge.
New Orleans Arena
It is anticipated the Arena may be fully back on line by the second quarter of 2006, if all goes well.
NBA Commissioner David Stern is considering relocating the New Orleans Hornets to another city. Games may possibly be played in the Shreveport-Bossier City area and/or in the Oklahoma City area. Other possibilities are also being considered. No decisions have been made at this time.
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