Port of Galveston Hurricane Ike Recovery (2021–Present)
Background:
Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Ike, the Port of Galveston faced significant challenges in managing and recovering from extensive infrastructure damage. Years after the storm, numerous FEMA projects remained unresolved, with complex documentation, insurance, and lease-related issues delaying reimbursement and project closeout.
Approach
To accelerate recovery and secure funding, a comprehensive strategy was implemented:
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Project Organization: Consolidated and organized 108 outstanding FEMA projects, ensuring all documentation was complete and compliant.
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Cost Analysis: Conducted a detailed review of lease agreements and insurance reimbursements to identify and document eligible versus ineligible costs.
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Stakeholder Collaboration: Partnered with Port leadership to revise and rewrite multiple FEMA project worksheets, aligning them with updated recovery goals and compliance standards.
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Administrative Cost Recovery: Identified and documented approximately $7 million in additional direct administrative costs previously unclaimed.
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Scope Revision for SRIA Project: Led the revision of the SRIA project scope, enabling the Port to secure an additional $22 million in FEMA reimbursement, including $16 million in mitigation funds redirected to support the West End Port project.
Outcome:
This strategic recovery initiative significantly advanced the Port’s long-term resilience and financial recovery:
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Accelerated the closeout of long-standing FEMA projects.
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Recovered millions in previously unclaimed administrative and mitigation costs.
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Strengthened the Port’s infrastructure through redirected mitigation funding.
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Enhanced collaboration between federal agencies and Port leadership, setting a precedent for future disaster recovery efforts.