The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the allocation of more than $2.2 billion in federal disaster relief funding to aid recovery efforts in communities affected by past natural disasters. The announcement was made by Secretary Kristi Noem, who emphasized the importance of restoring public infrastructure.
“This investment will repair and restore critical public infrastructure across the country, including schools, public safety facilities, utilities, and community services,” said Secretary Noem. “American 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.”
The funding will be distributed through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance program. It is intended to support 1,721 recovery projects nationwide. States and local communities will receive these funds to address their specific needs during the recovery process.
Projects funded include repairs to educational institutions, restoration of essential infrastructure, debris removal, and reimbursement for emergency protective measures taken during disasters. Some highlighted allocations are:
- Over $200 million for North Carolina Emergency Management's response to Hurricane Helene.
- More than $114 million for Kentucky Division of Emergency Management for debris removal after storms and flooding.
- Over $84 million reimbursed to Louisiana's Office of Risk Management for work on a barrier island restoration project.
- More than $66 million allocated for waterline replacement in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana following Hurricane Ida.
- Over $59 million directed toward permanent repairs at a wastewater treatment facility in New Jersey.
- More than $58 million provided to Georgia Department of Transportation for emergency debris removal after Hurricane Helene.
- Additional funds are earmarked for power system repairs in Louisiana, school reconstruction in Arkansas, transportation infrastructure improvements in Vermont and New Hampshire, among others.
These efforts represent ongoing federal support as FEMA continues to assist state and local governments with rebuilding efforts following various natural disasters.
