State Aid Emergency Relief Update
By: Chris Nobach, Assistant Project Development Engineer
Happy August! It has been a busy storm season and one that is vastly different from the past couple of years when drought conditions persisted across the state. From an emergency relief standpoint, the summer of 2024 resulted in numerous locals being affected by the event summarized in the picture below:
Photo 1: 9-day precipitation values, June 15 thru June 24.
We are still sorting through the aftermath of this event, but here are some preliminary numbers below on repairs that were deemed eligible through State Aid Disaster resources after carefully collaborating with affected locals:
- Number of local public agencies eligible for FHWA Emergency Relief Program: 13 counties
- FHWA emergency relief (local) damage statewide: $22.8 million
- Number of local public agencies eligible for State Aid Disaster Account: 1 county
While it is a long road ahead to recover and start the reimbursement process, State Aid would like to take the time to thank all local agencies that had a hand in protecting the public, helping neighboring agencies, and participating in disaster relief efforts. It is a not an easy task to drop your normally scheduled activities, construction programs, and maintenance work to address an emergency. Through your efforts, the state and affected communities appear to be in good hands!
Photo 2: Blue Earth County CSAH 9 Bridge and Rapidan Dam
Should you find yourself in a situation where you think you may be eligible for disaster reimbursement, contact Chris Nobach (christopher.nobach@state.mn.us or 651-366-3824) and your District State Aid Engineer. Before doing any work - document your eligibility, take site photos, and begin prepping damage estimates. Please note that you could hinder your reimbursement eligibility efforts if you start work before coordinating with all the proper parties and understand the program rules (for example, follow NEPA procedures). Also, be sure to coordinate with your County Emergency Manager on FEMA Disaster eligibility.
We are here to help – stay safe out there!