NC to receive federal aid for ice storm cleanup

The funding is available for state and local governments, as well as certain nonprofits and hazard mitigation measures on a cost-sharing basis. Monies will be used for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by a winter storm that affected Alamance, Caswell, Davidson, Davie, Granville, Guilford, Orange, Person, and Randolph counties March 6-7.

“The last winter storm wreaked havoc across the state, with the Triad and Virginia border counties receiving the brunt of damages,” said Governor Pat McCrory, who requested the funds, in a statement. “We want to thank our federal partners for recognizing the seriousness of the winter weather North Carolina has seen this year, along with the help it will provide those still dealing with damage. This federal assistance will help the most impacted counties and electric co-ops recover some of the funds used to restore power, remove debris and repair damaged facilities.”

Ice storm response and recovery is estimated to have cost state and local governments $26.9 million, according to the governor's office. Federal funds could pay up to 75 percent of costs for emergency protective measures, repairs to local electric cooperatives infrastructure and tree and limb debris removal.

Monday's announcement comes as state Department of Transportation crews began debris cleanup in Alamance, Guilford and Orange counties. A brush removal contractor has also started collecting storm debris in Hillsborough.