Update: Sunken tourism building in Morgan City

Posted: Jun 27, 2012 6:48 PM by Tonya LaCoste
Updated: Jun 27, 2012 6:50 PM

The architect and contractor involved with building the new Cajun Coast Welcome Center in Morgan City have met to determine how to protect the sinking building from the elements, like rain, mold and pests. According to a report given to Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau Executive Director Carrie Stansbury, structural engineering and geotechnical professionals will provide a second opinion about the cause of the foundation failure and remedies.

On June 14, a painter discovered a crack in the sheetrock and advised the construction supervisor. "Unfortunately, the entire facility has sunk approximately five feet under the building footprint and to a lesser extent on each end. It appears that the sinking has stopped though the possibly of further settlement remains an open question," according to the report. There is significant damage to roofing, siding, window and door elements, and the supporting foundation.

The Morgan City Police Dept. is securing the site around the clock. Design professionals, the contractor and the owner will meet again on July 5.