Congressman Tim Moore Champions $116 Million in New FEMA Funding for Western North Carolina, Including $17.6 Million for Rutherford County

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) today applauded the announcement by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem of over $116 million in additional FEMA funding to support disaster recovery efforts across Western North Carolina, including a major $17.6 million investment in Rutherford County.

"Since day one, I've worked to make sure Western North Carolina gets the support it needs to recover and rebuild stronger than ever," said Congressman Moore."We've made real progress, and thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, this new $116 million investment, including $17.6 million for Rutherford County, will keep that momentum going. I've been on the ground in these communities, and it's encouraging to see businesses reopening and folks moving forward - with continued support like this, we can do even more."

"This investment will repair and restore critical public infrastructure across North Carolina, including schools, public safety facilities, utilities, and community services," said Secretary Noem."North Carolina communities are rebuilding stronger, and today's approvals show this Administration's commitment to cutting red tape and getting recovery dollars out the door faster. I want to thank Senator Ted Budd, Congressman Chuck Edwards, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, Congressman Tim Moore, Congressman David Rouzer, and Chairman Michael Whatley for their strong advocacy on behalf of North Carolinians."

Here are some of the notable FEMA Public Assistance grants obligated to the state and communities:

• $17.6 million to Rutherford County for the removal of nearly 700,000 cubic yards of debris and 75,000 trees and limbs from public rights of way, and the operation of four debris reduction sites.
• $34.7 million to North Carolina Department of Transportation for road and bridge repairs across more than 300 sites in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Caldwell, Henderson, Mitchell, Surry, and Watauga counties.
• $10.5 million to Asheville for potable water distribution, the repair or replacement of more than 100 fleet vehicles, DeBruhl Water Treatment Plant repairs, and road repairs.
• $3.7 million to Beech Mountain for repairs to the town's sewer system and wastewater treatment plant.

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program investments moving forward include projects to:

• Acquire flood-prone properties in Buncombe County (approximately $14.2 million).
• Acquire flood-prone properties in Henderson County (approximately $9.2 million).
• Elevate 14 homes in Beaufort County (approximately $2.5 million).

Prior to today's announcement, more than $1 billion was provided to North Carolina for recovery efforts. FEMA has also paid more than $549 million in grants to survivors to directly help families recover.