Josh Stein, Governor of North Carolina State (left) & JEC Chairman David Schweikert (right) | Oficial website
Josh Stein, Governor of North Carolina State (left) & JEC Chairman David Schweikert (right) | Oficial website
Governor Josh Stein and HUD leader Adrianne Todman announced significant funding for recovery efforts in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. The announcement took place in Asheville, where the officials revealed that more than $1.65 billion would be allocated through Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery awards.
Governor Stein expressed gratitude to HUD and the congressional delegation for their support. "I am deeply grateful to HUD and to our congressional delegation for its investment in the people of western North Carolina as they continue to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene," he stated. He emphasized that these funds would aid in rebuilding homes, repairing infrastructure, and providing relief to small businesses.
Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer highlighted the importance of this allocation for the city. “This direct allocation to Asheville demonstrates the federal government’s understanding of our city’s unique recovery challenges and the urgency of rebuilding,” she said. Manheimer stressed her commitment to using these funds strategically to create a sustainable future for Asheville.
HUD Agency Head Adrianne Todman outlined how the disaster discovery funds would be utilized. “Western North Carolina communities have been impacted by devastating disasters — damaging homes, destroying infrastructure, and stretching local capacity to recover,” she noted. Todman added that the funding would assist in rebuilding homes, developing affordable housing, aiding small businesses, and repairing critical infrastructure.
The funding includes $1,428,120,000 allocated to North Carolina and $225,010,000 directly to Asheville. This financial support stems from the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025.
Governor Stein also visited Mountain BizWorks and toured Old Fort with local officials to assess ongoing recovery needs. Recently, he issued executive orders aimed at enhancing relief efforts for Hurricane Helene victims by supporting temporary shelter construction and road repairs.
In his latest executive order, Governor Stein waived federal limits on driving hours for truck drivers transporting essential heating fuels to ensure adequate supplies during winter months in affected areas.
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