WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced $5.7 million from the United States Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Quick Release program to clear federal highways and execute other emergency work resulting from damages that occurred during last week’s floods.

“Last week’s thunderstorms devastated parts of central and southeastern West Virginia, destroying and severely damaging many roads, bridges and highways. For some of the hardest hit areas, these thoroughfares are essential for residents who need to get to work or travel to receive medical care,” said Senator Capito. “I am pleased that the administration has recognized the extent of this damage and acted swiftly to bring in the resources we need to recover. This funding will help to restore essential traffic, repairs our roadways to minimize further damage, and replace roads that were washed away following the storms.”

“I am pleased the Department of Transportation has stepped up to provide much needed relief to West Virginia as we begin to recover from this devastating flood,” Senator Manchin said. “This historic flooding has completely devastated 44 West Virginia counties. In the week since the flood waters hit I have visited communities across West Virginia and my staff has been on the ground assisting victims. This funding will go a long way in ensuring every West Virginian effected by this flood is provided the resources they need to recover from this horrific tragedy.”

These funds authorize the repair or reconstruction of Federal-aid highways and roads on Federal lands that have suffered serious damage as a result of the severe flooding in West Virginia.

Individual awards are listed below:

$5,000,000 – West Virginia Department of Transportation

$700,000 – National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

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