FEMA Approval for Putnam County
Putnam will join other counties in New York state that will receive funds from the federal government in response to damage caused by Hurricane Irene.
Today, U.S. Rep. Nan Hayworth announced the county’s eligibility to receive public and individual assistance, allowing the federal government to release funds and technologies to help residents and businesses rebuild after Irene.
“During visits with local officials and residents in ever county in the 19th District, I observed first-hand the extensive damage to home businesses, farmland and infrastructure from hurricane-force winds, rain and flooding through the Hudson Valley,” Hayworth said.
Westchester and Rockland counties each received aid early last week, but as of Wednesday, Putnam’s status was still up in the air. U.S. senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand actively pursued assistance, both encouraging the federal government to take careful consideration in approving aid for Putnam.
Schumer visited Philipstown with Putnam County Executive Paul Eldridge this past weekend to access damage caused by downed trees and power lines. The town experienced major flooding from the Hudson River, and many residents were forced to evacuate the riverfront.
“I thank President Obama for his approval of all of our counties in the Hudson Valley for the highest disaster designation for New York, so that the citizens of our District will receive relief as quickly as possible,” Hayworth said.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.