Lessons for Post-Katrina Reconstruction: A High-Road vs. Low-Road Recovery


 

Publication Date: October 2005

Publisher: Economic Policy Institute

Author(s): Peter Philips

Research Area: Economics; Labor

Type: Brief

Abstract:

The rebuilding of highways in Los Angeles, Calif. after the 1994 Northridge earthquake provides valuable lessons for the post-Katrina/Rita reconstruction effort. Foremost among those lessons is that competitive bidding and enforcement of labor standards such as the Davis-Bacon prevailing wage law can help ensure that work is done expeditiously, safely, cost effectively, and with maximum benefit to the local population.

The Northridge experience disproves claims that Davis- Bacon generates excessive paperwork, costs, or delays.