Congressional Delegation Applauds Federal Disaster Funding for Massachusetts
Commonwealth to receive more than $120 million in federal aid
Washington, DC – Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) announcement that more than $120 million in disaster assistance has been awarded to the Commonwealth for costs associated with this past winter’s historic snowfall.
“This disaster funding is a big help for Massachusetts’ cities and towns as we continue to recover from last winter’s severe storms,” Senator Elizabeth Warren said. “It’s important for the federal government to be a good partner for our local communities, especially during emergencies, and I’m glad the congressional delegation was able to work with FEMA and with our state and local officials to secure this critical aid. This funding will support much-needed repairs to the Commonwealth's aging infrastructure as we work to improve resiliency for the winter months.”
“This disaster funding will go a long way to help pay the bills that piled up as high as last year’s historic snowfall," Senator Edward J. Markey said. "I’m pleased the entire Congressional delegation was able to help Massachusetts and our local municipalities get the federal relief and resources we need to repair, rebuild and recoup costs incurred from last year's winter disaster.”
“Last year, the people of Massachusetts experienced some of the most severe weather in recent history. Record snowfall and historically cold temperatures made the winter months challenging, especially for our cities and towns. That is why this unprecedented amount of disaster assistance from FEMA is welcome news. It will help communities cover storm related costs and give them the resources to plan for the upcoming winter season. It’s an early Christmas present for the entire Commonwealth,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal.
“Our last winter was one of the harshest that Massachusetts has faced and this federal aid will provide much-needed relief to the cities and towns that were impacted,” Congressman Jim McGovern said. “Bringing these federal dollars back to Massachusetts to help families and communities recover has been a top priority. I’m proud to work side-by-side with such strong partners in our delegation to help continue recovery efforts as we prepare for this year’s winter.”
“This federal funding will take some of the financial burden off of our cities and towns, who struggled through an historic winter. I am pleased that FEMA recognized the need for federal aid, which will help our communities meet the financial challenges that the winter of 2015 created,” stated Congressman Michael Capuano.
“The severe snowstorms last winter left many cities and towns struggling with significant costs for snow removal and infrastructure repairs. I am pleased that the Massachusetts delegation was able to work closely with Governor Baker and our local elected officials to strongly advocate for much needed federal aid. As winter approaches, this assistance will relieve some of the stress placed on budgets across the Commonwealth after the substantial storm costs accumulated earlier this year,” said Congressman Stephen F. Lynch.
“After last winter’s historic snowfall, all levels of government came together to ensure Massachusetts received support from FEMA and the federal government," Congresswoman Niki Tsongas said. "This announcement is the result of that collaboration across federal, state and local government. The funding will go a long way here in the Commonwealth, especially as we look ahead to the beginning of another New England winter.”
“Communities across our Commonwealth faced unprecedented costs and damage following last year’s historic winter,” said Congressman Joe Kennedy. “With this aid, our cities and towns can recoup some of the funding used to keep their streets open, governments functioning and first responders available. I applaud FEMA for assisting in our recovery and thank all of my colleagues in the delegation for working together to advocate for these critical funds.”
“Last winter’s unprecedented snow storms severely damaged homes and businesses, left thousands without power, and crippled the Commonwealth’s already aging infrastructure," Congressman Seth Moulton said. "I am grateful to FEMA for providing this much-needed assistance and applaud the work of our state and local partners for their efforts to mitigate the impact of these storms."
Following last winter’s storms, the delegation asked FEMA to support the Commonwealth’s disaster recovery efforts, and urged President Obama to approve Massachusetts’ disaster declaration request.
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