South Raleigh News

Today, Governor Josh Stein and emergency management officials urged residents of western North Carolina to apply for aid to repair private roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane caused extensive damage due to the region's topography, affecting over 8,000 private roads and bridges. This program aims to help property owners restore access for emergency services, school buses, and other transportation.

"Helene caused significant damage to over 8,000 private roads and bridges that often serve as the only access route for many ambulances, fire trucks, mail delivery vehicles, school buses, and for people to get to school, work, and run errands," said Governor Josh Stein. "If left unrepaired, these critical private roads and bridges pose a substantial risk to public safety, including preventing repairs to people’s homes. If you need bridge or road repair, I encourage you to apply through this portal."

The destruction of private roads, culverts, pipes, and bridges followed Hurricane Helene's impact across North Carolina. On January 2, 2025, Governor Stein issued Executive Order #2 directing North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) to provide state assistance for these repairs through the North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB).

Governor Stein tasked NCEM with administering state assistance for repairs while collaborating with the legislature for additional funding. NCEM is contracting services from vendors for these repairs. To expedite the process, a webpage with an interest form has been established for property owners.

Disaster survivors are also encouraged to contact the North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program if they require further resources or recovery assistance. More information can be found at www.ncdps.gov/helene/dcm.