$1.6 Million FEMA Aid For Hurricane Irene Damage in Rockland

Rockland County has been awarded $1.6m in Federal Emergency Management Agency funding to help repairs to the embankment along the Minisceongo Creek, damage by flooding in Hurricane Irene in 2011, according to U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, D-Harrison. 

“I am pleased that Rockland County will have access to this badly-needed funding as it continues to address the damage caused by not just Hurricane Irene, but Superstorm Sandy as well,” said Lowey. 

Rockland County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef said the county is grateful for the funding that will help rebuild Minisceongo Creek.

“The level of cooperation between state officials and FEMA has been outstanding, and there has been a strong spirit of teamwork as we work together to repair damage from Hurricane Irene,” said Chris Jensen, program director, Rockland County Office of Fire & Emergency Services.

During Irene, strong winds, heavy rain and flooding caused floodwaters within the Minisceongo Creek to damage the concrete panels and retaining wall that help maintain the embankments along the creek.

“Hurricane Irene inflicted major damage up and down the length of Minisceongo Creek, affecting homes and businesses in the area and resulting in significant cleanup and repair costs for the town," said Haverstraw Supervisor Howard Phillips. "Aid from the federal government makes it possible for local municipalities to repair the damage without facing significant financial burdens, and that’s why today’s announcement is such good news."