South Carolina can access $1 million in emergency relief funds from the Federal Highway Administration to help fix roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Matthew.
“Hurricane Matthew caused significant damage to South Carolina’s roadways and bridges, creating serious challenges for the local residents and taking a toll on the economy,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said Oct. 20 in announcing the funds’ availability. “We’re doing everything we can to support the state and local response to this disaster, and are working to restore emergency access and begin the most critical repairs.”
Hurricane Matthew pelted South Carolina’s coast this month, causing severe wind, heavy rain and flooding. Damage to transportation infrastructure already is widespread in 13 counties in South Carolina. North Carolina was hit even harder, and FHWA said that state’s floodwaters are expected to cause rivers in South Carolina to overflow and result in more flooding.
“The funding will help the state start repairs immediately while representing the first installment of federal resources until all the damage assessments are made,” FHWA Administrator Gregory Nadeau said. “It will help ensure that people can access vital services and begin to rebuild their lives and communities.”
The $1 million is considered a down payment on more FHWA funds that are likely to flow to the Carolinas.
