FHWA 03-20
Contact: Nancy Singer
Tel: (202) 366-0660

WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao today announced the availability of $4.3 million in “quick release” Emergency Relief (ER) funds to help repair roads and bridges damaged by flooding in North Dakota.

Late last year, North Dakota experienced a series of floods due to heavy rains in late summer and fall, as well as a historic October blizzard. The heavy precipitation resulted in flooding, landslides and the erosion of highways.

The $4.3 million in “quick release” funds will be used to reimburse North Dakota for the repairs needed on damaged federal-aid routes throughout the state, including the Rice Lake, James River and Salt Lake basin areas.

“These emergency funds will help communities in North Dakota make repairs to vital transportation routes,” said Federal Highway Administrator Nicole R. Nason.

These quick-release funds will help reimburse the North Dakota Department of Transportation for costs associated with emergency repairs needed to prevent further damage. They are considered a down payment on the costs of short-term repairs while state officials continue damage assessments for long-term repairs.

FHWA’s ER program provides funding for federally eligible highways and bridges damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events.

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