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The Evolution of the Federal Role in Supporting Community Recovery After U.S. Disasters

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  • Robert B. Olshansky
  • Laurie A. Johnson

Abstract

Problem, research strategy, and findings: The process of long-term recovery, if done well, can minimize post-disaster disruption, address problems that existed before the disaster struck, and improve the future resilience of a community. The U.S. government, however, historically has lacked a systematic approach to supporting community recovery. This study describes the history of federal policies for supporting community recovery after disasters, with particular attention to the roles of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). We conclude by considering the new National Disaster Recovery Framework (NDRF). This historical review suggests that the federal government needs to emphasize the following: providing resources for community recovery planning; facilitating increased flows of information after disasters; streamlining FEMA assistance to public agencies; explicitly working to reduce the barriers between FEMA and HUD; and incorporating equity into recovery policies. Recovery policies also need to include incentives to achieve substantive goals of rebuilding in a way that is sustainable, equitable, cost-effective, and timely, and that reduces the chances of future disasters. Takeaway for practice: Local community planners can draw several lessons from this historical account. First, they should become aware of the various post-disaster programs now, before disaster strikes. Second, knowledge of post-disaster policies and programs will enable planners to use them creatively and effectively if disaster strikes. Third, in the midst of reconstruction, planners need to continually seek opportunities to promote betterment and resilience to natural hazards.

Suggested Citation

  • Robert B. Olshansky & Laurie A. Johnson, 2014. "The Evolution of the Federal Role in Supporting Community Recovery After U.S. Disasters," Journal of the American Planning Association, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 80(4), pages 293-304, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rjpaxx:v:80:y:2014:i:4:p:293-304
    DOI: 10.1080/01944363.2014.967710
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    1. Abhas K. Jha & Jennifer Duyne Barenstein & Priscilla M. Phelps & Daniel Pittet & Stephen Sena, . "Safer Homes, Stronger Communities : A Handbook for Reconstructing after Natural Disasters," World Bank Publications, The World Bank, number 2409, September.
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    2. A. Sebastian & D. J. Bader & C. M. Nederhoff & T. W. B. Leijnse & J. D. Bricker & S. G. J. Aarninkhof, 2021. "Hindcast of pluvial, fluvial, and coastal flood damage in Houston, Texas during Hurricane Harvey (2017) using SFINCS," Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, Springer;International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, vol. 109(3), pages 2343-2362, December.
    3. Siqing Shan & Feng Zhao, 2023. "Social media-based urban disaster recovery and resilience analysis of the Henan deluge," Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, Springer;International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, vol. 118(1), pages 377-405, August.

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