City of Dallas Establishes Hurricane Shelter at Reunion Arena

Shelter expected to house 1000 refugees now in Park and Recreation Facilities and Dallas Hotels

(Dallas, August 31, 2005) – The City of Dallas announced today that it will establish a shelter for Hurricane Katrina refugees at downtown’s Reunion Arena.  Dallas Mayor Laura Miller said the city is committed to applying all its available resources to assisting victims from this week’s tragedy.

“Our experts tell us that Reunion can safely house 1000 people at this city-owned building,” said Mayor Miller.  “We will do everything we can to help these people to have some measure of comfort while they are here.  It’s not a hotel, but it’s a better place to be than some of the alternatives.”

The mayor said that nearly every department of the city has been activated in support, and she emphasized that the Red Cross needs volunteers and money.  She said there is no way for either the city or the Red Cross to take in bulk good such as clothes.

Mayor Miller and City Manager Mary Suhm said the following services are “in the works” for the hurricane victims:

• On-site health facilities to be provided by Parkland
• Security inside and outside the building
• City is working with DART on transportation needs
• The Red Cross will provide food and water
• Communications service

“It won’t be set up overnight,” said the mayor.  “And obviously, there are some long term needs that will need to be addressed.  There are more questions than answers in much of this.”

“It has become clear that this is not a short term situation,” said Mary Suhm.  “We stand ready to support the people of New Orleans for the long term.”

 Joining the mayor at the news conference were:  City Manager Suhm, Kenny Shaw, city of Dallas Office of Emergency Management, Donnie Claxton, representing the Dallas Independent School District, Police Chief David Kunkle, Fire Chief Steve Abraira, Red Cross’ Steve Betrano and Reunion Arena manager Wil Caudell. 

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