Lincoln, Neb. - Federal Public Assistance disaster funds are now available to help local, county and state governments, as well as Tribal Nations, in 53 counties rebuild public property damaged by the recent severe storms, tornadoes and floods that have affected Nebraska since June 1.
Antelope, Arthur, Blaine, Boone, Boyd, Brown, Burt, Cass, Chase, Cherry, Cheyenne, Colfax, Cuming, Custer, Dodge, Douglas, Frontier, Garden, Garfield, Greeley, Harlan, Hayes, Holt, Howard, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, Loup, Madison, McPherson, Morrill, Nance, Nemaha, Nuckolls, Otoe, Perkins, Phelps, Pierce, Platte, Richardson, Rock, Sarpy, Saunders, Sherman, Sioux, Stanton, Thomas, Valley, Washington, Wayne, Webster and Wheeler counties are now approved for Federal Public Assistance under a declaration approved by President Barack Obama for the state of Nebraska.
Local, state and federal teams have been inspecting disaster-related damage and examining emergency expenses identified by state and local representatives. Preliminary Damage Assessments estimated the scope of repair work needed and restoration costs.
For approved projects, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will pay 75 percent of the cost. The State of Nebraska and the local organization applying for funding of a specific project will cost-share the remaining 25 percent.
Projects may include debris removal, emergency-services and repair or replacement of damaged roads and bridges. Also addressed are schools, libraries and other public buildings, water control facilities, public utilities and recreational facilities.
Qualified private non-profit organizations also may receive assistance to restore certain kinds of facilities. These include educational, utility, emergency, medical, custodial care and others that provide essential governmental services.
All counties in the State of Nebraska are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
