FEMA Approves $3 Million For Henrico County Debris Removal
Release Date: August 27, 2007
Release Number: R3-07-029
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that more than $3 million was approved for Henrico County, Virginia.
This federal funding, issued under FEMA's Public Assistance (PA) grant program, will reimburse the county for emergency debris removal associated with damage caused by Hurricane Isabel. A major disaster declaration was issued on September 18, 2003.
"This grant is a clear indication of FEMA's commitment to eliminating threats to lives, public health and safety," said Jonathan Sarubbi, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region III.
FEMA will pay $3,176,039 - 75 percent of the project costs, which total $4,234,719. The Commonwealth or local applicants will provide non-federal funds to pay the remaining 25 percent.
Henrico County was severely impacted by high winds and heavy rains from Hurricane Isabel, which resulted in wide-spread debris on public right-of-ways, parks and in areas surrounding creeks and streams. The announced funding will pay for the removal of woody debris from streams and creeks; thus eliminating an immediate threat to improved public or private property.
Through the PA program, FEMA provides supplemental federal disaster assistance for the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain private non-profit organizations. The federal share of assistance is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost for emergency measures and permanent restoration. The grantee (usually the state) determines how the non-federal share (up to 25 percent) is split with the sub grantees (eligible applicant).
The PA program is based on a partnership among FEMA, state, and local officials. FEMA is responsible for managing the program, approving grants, and providing technical assistance to the state and applicants. The state educates potential applicants, works with FEMA to manage the program, and is responsible for implementing and monitoring the grants awarded under the program. Local officials are responsible for identifying damage, providing information necessary for FEMA to approve grants, and managing the project funded under the PA program.
Additional PA information is available at www.fema.gov/government/grant/pa/index.shtm.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 28-Aug-2007 09:14:49