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Congressman Paul Tonko announced today two federal grants from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist with recovery efforts associated with Tropical Storm Lee. The grants, totaling $6,969,693.32, will provide 75% of the cost for the Thruway Authority to repair the lock and dam system on the Erie Canal, which sustained critical damage during the 2011 severe weather event and subsequent flooding.

“This is a big win for our region as we continue to rebuild and repair after a string of devastating weather events,” said Tonko. “In the future, it is my hope that federal assistance will come much swifter and there will be less political bickering in Congress while our small businessmen, farmers, and homeowners are in need. I will continue to fight in Washington until New Yorkers are completely back on their feet.”

Tonko served as a strong voice in Washington to secure federal aid for storm-damaged areas of the Capital Region. In 2011, Tonko introduced legislation to provide $338.5 million in new funds for farmers devastated by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, and has worked with local leaders and the White House to improve federal response to these disasters.

“Severe weather events of the last few years – as well as storms this week that have threatened to flood the region – are some of the most important reasons we need to end sequestration and find responsible budget cuts elsewhere. There is no reason to hamstring extreme weather monitoring programs when lives are literally at stake. Although New Yorkers are always happy to help their friends and neighbors, if we can avoid future disasters like Irene and Lee, we should. I applaud the leadership of Brian Stratton from the New York State Canal Corporation on this work. We could not have achieved this without cooperation between federal and state staff and leaders.” added Tonko.

Between September 7 and September 11, 2011, Tropical Storm Lee created strong winds, heavy rain and extensive flooding throughout the State of New York. Flood waters caused extensive damage to the lock and dam systems on the Erie Canal as well as erosion of the river around the facilities. The FEMA grants will help restore the locks and dams to pre-storm conditions.   

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