Katrina still a federal focus NEW ORLEANS (AP) (wrkf) - The ongoing response to Hurricane Gustav in south Louisiana will not impede federal efforts related to recovery from Hurricane Katrina.

So says Brendan LaCivita, a spokesman for the federal coordinator of Gulf Coast Rebuilding. That office was set up in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which hit in 2005. It is scheduled to sunset in February, one month after President Bush leaves office.

LaCivita says the office has not lost its focus.

In recent months, the federal coordinator, retired Major General Doug O'Dell, has held meetings with local, state and federal officials in hopes of overcoming any problems and speeding high-priority rebuilding projects.

President Bush visited the region in August, shortly before the third anniversary of Katrina and the arrival of Gustav, on Labor Day © Copyright 2009, wrkf