Two Years After Floyd, Princeville Continues To Rebuild

Two years ago in Princeville, homes and apartments were totally underwater. Today, they are making a comeback. A building blitz is on in Princeville.

It is a real blessing to Lanesia Dolberry, who is hoping to move back into her rebuilt apartment soon.

"I'm so glad that everybody hasn't thought negative about it. Instead of going backwards, they're moving forward," she said.

Princeville had no choice but to move forward after the town's elected leaders opted not to take the federal buyout. Instead, people are rebuilding. The town's received about $15 million from federal and state funds to help pay contractors.

"Preflood Princeville had some residential units that were outdated from the dark ages, so to speak. With the flood, it was a blessing in disguise," said interim town manager Bobby Hopkins. "People are getting new homes. We are currently working on roads around here. Our infrastructure, water and sewer is being refurbished."

Almost a third of Princeville's families still have not moved back home, compared to only 10 percent who do not have a home statewide. Princeville has just completed an upgrade of its fire department and hopes to begin work on a new town hall shortly.