The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently provided North Carolina more than $103 million for Tropical Storm Helene and Hurricane Florence recovery efforts. Funding was awarded to more than 50 public assistance projects that help repair and protect critical infrastructure.
Public assistance reimburses state and local governments and eligible nonprofit organizations for emergency work and supports permanent repairs of, or the replacement of, damaged roads and bridges, water control facilities, and public buildings. Emergency work includes debris removal and emergency protective measures that reduce immediate threats to life, public health, safety and property during and immediately after the storms.
FEMA is reimbursing the costs of Helene-related projects at no less than 90 percent federal cost share through the program. Non-federal sources cover the remaining share.
Awardees include:
The North Carolina Department of Transportation received $4.8 million to repair washed-out segments along State Route 197 in Mitchell County.
Watauga County Schools received $26.1 million to replace the Valle Crucis School building, a pre-kindergarten through eight school.
Haywood County received $12.5 million for debris removal from waterways.
The French Broad Electric Membership Corp. received $7.3 million to repair the Capitola Dam and associated structures damaged by flooding.
Avery County received $6.2 million for debris removal.