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Public Works: county storm‑damage estimate rises to ~$68.5M; $14.5M in construction loans forecast
Summary
Public Works reported that storm damage is now estimated at about $68.5 million, with approximately $34.5 million already spent and pending FEMA final review. Staff forecast the need for roughly $14.5 million in short‑term advanced construction loans to fund large bridge projects while FEMA processing continues.
Public Works told the Board that repair work from the multiple 2023 storms is largely complete for most sites but that the county’s total damage estimate has risen to about $68.5 million, driven mainly by larger bridge replacements such as Chimney Rock, Creston and Wasna Road.
Deputy Director John Waddell and Supervising Engineer Garrett Malcolini said the county has spent approximately $34.5 million to date. Most projects are in FEMA’s phase‑4 final review or already obligated; however, staff warned that FEMA processing has slowed because of federal staffing and administrative delays. Public Works reported a recent $140,000 check and continuing coordination with congressional offices to expedite reimbursements.
Because major bridge projects must be advanced long before FEMA disburses final reimbursements, Public Works forecasts a need for about $14.5 million in short‑term construction loans in FY25–26, supplementing $8.0 million of remaining storm‑loan funding already approved. Staff said loans will be requested at the time of contract award and will be repaid through FEMA or FHWA reimbursements where eligible.
Public Works also gave a project‑by‑project status update: more than 90% of sites have been repaired or cleaned up; some longer‑range projects (e.g., Chiquetty Road low‑water crossing) require additional permitting and are slated for later construction (2028). Staff emphasized they are consolidating smaller sites into larger projects to streamline permitting and maximize reimbursement. The Board asked staff to return with loan requests at contract award and to continue outreach to federal representatives to expedite claim processing.
The report underscores the county’s continuing cash‑flow needs while accounting for federal funding uncertainty.
