Seven students from the KU chapter of Engineers Without Borders are spending spring break in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward. The group will work with the Historic Green organization to rebuild the area in a way that preserves its history while creating a sustainable future.

“We saw a flier for the event, and it seemed like a perfect thing for our members,” said Jodi Gentry, a doctoral student in environmental engineering from Lawrence and president of the chapter. “We have a lot of architectural engineers, so they will have a lot to bring to the project.”

The KU group, which includes five architectural engineers, one chemical engineer and a chemistry major, is paying its own way, with the exception of a small grant from KU’s Engineering Student Council to assist with expenses.

As one of the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, the Holy Cross Historic District of the Lower Ninth Ward was submerged in 10 feet of water for three weeks. Nearly 6,000 residents were displaced, and numerous schools, churches and businesses were destroyed or severely damaged.

During the Historic Green event, hundreds of students and young professionals in the construction industry will bring their energy and ideas to help the people of the Lower Ninth revitalize their community. Architects, engineers, planners, landscape architects, interior designers and contractors will work hand-in-hand with neighborhood residents on their historic houses, parks, playgrounds and community centers.

“We’re leading a unique grassroots effort to go the next step to rebuild this historic landmark—this time green,” said Pam Dashiell, director of the Lower Ninth Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development in New Orleans.

For information about KU’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders, visit ewb-ku.org. For more information about the activities in New Orleans, visit www.historicgreen.org.