DOT pledges $14M to help restore road and bridge access following Florence

Posted By: Steve Barnes September 21, 2018

ConDig (21-Sept-18).  The Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued $14 million in emergency relief funds to help restore access to essential roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Florence, which wreaked havoc across parts of North Carolina at the end of last week.

The DOT said it was the first installment of funds used to restore essential traffic and limit further highway damage, which can help long-term repair and recovery efforts get underway more quickly.

The multi-day storm affected many areas of the state resulting in many closed sections of roads on the national highway system, including Interstate 40 and Interstate 95. Florence brought more than 20 inches of rain in parts of South Carolina and more than 30 inches of rain in North Carolina over four days.

“I have just signed off on North Carolina’s request for $14 million in immediate emergency relief funds to help address the infrastructure impact of Hurricane Florence,” said US Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao. “This Administration is committed to helping North Carolinians recover and rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Florence.”

The powerful storm caused more than $1.2 billion in damages in South Carolina, according to Governor Henry McMaster, who has asked members of the state’s congressional delegation for help in securing federal aid.

The storm has claimed the lives of 41 people as of Thursday.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also issued a statement urging emergency crews in the areas affected to be aware of hazards from flooding, power loss, structural damage, fallen trees, and storm debris.

“Workers involved in storm recovery can face a range of safety and health hazards,” said OSHA regional administrator Kurt Petermeyer. “Risks can be minimized with knowledge, safe work practices, and personal protective equipment.”

Recovery efforts after the storm may involve hazards related to restoring electricity and communications, debris removal, repairing damage from water intrusion, roof repair, and tree trimming.