07-05-2025
FEMA: Local counties awarded $2 million for Helene repairs
NORTHEAST TENNESSEE (WJHL) — 14 counties in East Tennessee have been awarded $2 million in state funds for Hurricane Helene repairs.
According to a news release from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the funds will go towards emergency and permanent work to repair bridges, restore utilities, remove debris and take measures to further protect Helene-impacted counties.
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The following community projects will receive funds through FEMA's Public Assistance program:
Carter County First Utility District – $4,966 for emergency protective measures
Hawkins County Emergency Communications District – $4,632 for emergency protective measures
Johnson County $624,640 for Morefield Bridge repairs $617,344 for Furnace Creek Bridge repairs $12,875 for Brownlow Utility District meter repairs
Unicoi County Gas Utility District – $27,949 for emergency protective measures, $39,335 for restoring gas service to residential customers Sheriff's Office – $124,760 for emergency protective measures
Washington County Johnson City Energy Authority – $227,806 for emergency protective measures Emergency Communications District – $6,041 for emergency protective measures
Sevier County $34,524 for City of Pigeon Forge $11,154 for Sevier County Utility District $196,489 for the county government , all for emergency protective measures
'The Public Assistance program reimburses communities for emergency work to save lives and protect property; remove debris; and repair roads, bridges, public buildings, utilities and parks,' FEMA said in a news release. 'Because this is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of eligible costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.'
FEMA's share for this project is $83,731, and the nonfederal share is $27,910.
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