'Staggering Cost': Southeastern PA Counties Get FEMA Aid For Ida

SOUTHEASTERN PA — Several counties in southeastern Pennsylvania have received public assistance from the federal government in their ongoing recovery from the damages wrought by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. The total damage estimate for the storm currently sits at $41.3 million.

Aid had originally been provided through FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration — individual assistance — for both residents and local businesses. This newly approved aid supports county and municipal governments, entities tasked with orchestrating and paying for the bulk of recovery.

That includes damaged roads, bridges, facilities, and more.

“Storms of this nature have enduring impacts, and while the immediate needs of those affected by the damages Ida brought to Pennsylvania continue to be addressed, my administration has also sought to alleviate the burden posed to local governments as they continue to rebuild critical infrastructure,” Gov. Tom Wolf said in a statement. “The public assistance declaration is a vital resource for our communities to seek relief from the staggering costs associated with rebuilding roads, bridges, and other public property.”

Montgomery, Chester, and Bucks counties have all been approved for the assistance, and certain local governments can apply as well. Up to 75 percent of the costs incurred from the storm in seven different categories can be reimbursed. That includes things like debris management, road repair, emergency sheltering of storm victims, equipment rentals, and other materials.

State funding will help offset the remaining 25 percent.

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency is meeting directly with counties to review their application materials and disburse funds as they are approved.

Individual residents in all southeastern Pennsylvania counties, including York, can also still apply for funding through FEMA until Nov. 10. Assistance can be applied for online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.