Architects to Work with Fire and Safety Officials to Help Fire Survivors Rebuild Their Communities SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) and AIA San Diego are again actively working with city and county building officials to simplify and facilitate the process of rebuilding the communities devastated by the wildfires, utilizing programs developed from the 2003 San Diego County fires. Pam Touschner, AIA, president of The AIACC states, “As we’ve learned from post-fire recovery in the past, this is not the time to make hasty decisions. Residents should educate themselves about the rebuilding process and their options. It can take two to three months for fire survivors to make informed decisions about the long-term impact of rebuilding their communities and it is incumbent upon architects to help them make the best choice for themselves and the environment.” Local AIA chapters will be conducting future workshops regarding the design, permitting, and construction process, and how to work with city and county agencies to expedite permitting, allowing residents to get back into their homes as quickly as possible. With the input of architects, the state Office of Emergency Services (OES) and The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) developed protocols enabling AIA volunteers to assist in the safety assessment and inspection of residential and commercial buildings.
