In light of the damage wrought by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has urged policymakers to reject any weakening of the building codes that have made America’s buildings the envy of the world and called for making public buildings a part of infrastructure renewal.
The entire list of principles can be viewed here.
“Our hearts go out to the people of Texas and Florida as both states work to recover from these storms, and the AIA is doing all it can to assist in that recovery,” says AIA President Thomas Vonier, FAIA.
“As we look toward eventually rebuilding in Texas and Florida, state and federal legislators must reject attempts to roll back protections that make design and planning the hallmarks of U.S. construction,” Vonier says. “Designing buildings to minimize damage from such natural disasters as hurricanes matters not only for public health, safety, and welfare; it also makes economic sense.”
“In 2016 alone, the nation spent $46 billion in response to natural disasters, and that was just in direct costs. The damage caused by Harvey and Irma will eclipse that.”
“Policymakers must recognize that buildings connect people, promote their well-being, stimulate commerce and save lives,” Vonier says.