ROAD REPAIR: Feds release emergency road repair funds after Hurricane Matthew

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has released $1 million in emergency relief funds to help South Carolina begin the process of repairing roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Matthew. The allocation comes a week after FHWA provided $5 million in emergency funds to North Carolina for the same purpose.

Hurricane Matthew skirted the coast of South Carolina earlier in October causing hurricane and tropical storm-force winds, heavy rain, and flooding along the coast and far inland. North Carolina floodwaters are expected to cause rivers in South Carolina to overflow and result in additional flooding in the Palmetto State later this week. Damage to transportation infrastructure is already widespread in 13 counties in South Carolina.

The $1 million quick release will be used to primarily restore emergency access and begin the most critical repairs. The state is also ensuring that traffic is adequately maintained, damage surveys are accomplished, and that repairs and replacement of damaged highway facilities are expedited.

This initial “quick release” payment is considered a down payment on costs of making short-term repairs now, which can make long-term repair work possible in the weeks ahead. The FHWA’s Emergency Relief program provides funding for highways and bridges damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events.