Declaration Provides Funding for Local Governments in Kings, Nassau and Westchester Counties.
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that President Biden approved her request for a Major Disaster Declaration to provide federal assistance to downstate communities impacted by heavy rain and flooding in September. The declaration allows for federal assistance to support recovery and reconstruction efforts in Kings, Nassau and Westchester Counties, including assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure. New York has also already secured low-interest recovery loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for home and businessowners in Kings and Nassau Counties.
“I’m committed to securing every possible dollar of federal aid to help the people of New York,” Governor Hochul said. “The major storm in September caused significant damage, and we’ll continue our efforts to help communities recover and rebuild.”
A Major Disaster Declaration secures financial assistance from the federal government, primarily through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, to provide funding to local governments, tribes and eligible non-profits for debris removal, protective measures, and repairs to buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water and wastewater treatment facilities, critical infrastructure sites, schools, parks and other facilities.
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Communities throughout the lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island were devastated by historic rainfall and flooding at the end of September. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Hochul and President Biden, these communities will now have access to the federal funding they need to support a strong recovery.”
More than eight inches of rain fell in parts of Brooklyn, and more than six inches of rain fell in parts of Nassau and Westchester counties during a 24-hour period on September 29, 2023. Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency for all of New York City, Long Island and the Mid-Hudson Region on September 29, as heavy rain impacted the downstate region. In advance of the storm, Governor Hochul directed State agencies to prepare emergency response assets and stay in constant communication with local governments to monitor weather impacts and respond to requests for assistance.
About the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) provides leadership, coordination, and support to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate disasters and other emergencies. For more information, follow @NYSDHSES on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter) or visit dhses.ny.gov.
