NEW YORK—Counties around the state will receive government help for a $1.6 billion recovery cost from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, including emergency shelter, water systems, and road repair.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo made $61 million available to 25 counties for a local contribution to relief. Three-quarters of the relief funds typically come from the Federal Emergency Management System, while the rest is picked up by local and state governments.
“During the storms and their aftermath, New Yorkers in an outpouring of goodwill came together to lend a hand to their neighbors, and now it is the state’s turn to lend a hand to localities,” said Cuomo in a statement.
“The mounting repair bills have been looming,” said state Sen. James L. Seward. “Removing this substantial burden from the shoulders of local government and taxpayers is a vital step toward a full recovery both physically and fiscally.”
Funding came from legislation and the governor. Schoharie County, with the highest estimated cost of recovery projects, pegged at $102 million, will receive $12.8 million. Other counties receiving larger amounts include Broome County receiving $9.4 million, Tioga County receiving $7.1 million, and Greene County receiving $4.4 million.
