California Railroad Receives Disaster Funds
Release Date: June 23, 1999
Release Number: R9-99-13
» 1999 Region IX News Releases
San Francisco, Calif. -- The North Coast Railroad Authority (NCRA) will receive between $10 million and $12 million in federal and state disaster assistance. Announcement of an agreement was made today by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES).
The funds are the result of extensive reviews by the two government agencies and have been approved under FEMA's Public Assistance Program, which is administered in California by OES. In-depth negotiations have been held among the agencies, the railroad management, and elected officials.
The final dollar amount will depend upon final resolution of an outstanding appeal.
"NCRA and its lines have been hard-hit by several natural disasters," said Martha Whetstone, FEMA Regional Director (Region IX). "So we're pleased to have reached agreement in sorting through the kinds of help for which the railroad is eligible under the law."
"The railroad is an essential part of California's economy," said Dallas Jones, director of OES. "This funding will be crucial in NCRA's viability as a transportation entity."
The aggregate amount being provided is reimbursement for the railroad's expenses that were a direct result of multiple storm-related disasters. Intended for approximately 130 damaged sites on the railway's lines, the money is to be used for specific work, such as track laying, debris removal, and restoration of some facilities. The funding does not cover landslide stabilization, and no federal monies will be provided for that purpose.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 13-Jan-2004 16:39:36