Flood damaged federal roadways receive $18.6 million for repairs

Mississippi’s U.S. Sens. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) today announced in a joint statement the approval of $18.6 million in emergency relief to repair or reconstruct flood-damaged transportation infrastructure.

The U.S. Department of Transportation will award the funding to the Mississippi Department of Transportation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair flood damage to federal-aid highways and roads on federal lands in various locations around the state.

“Flooding, particularly in the Yazoo Backwater, has undermined the integrity of roads and highways. Federal emergency transportation relief money will help us repair and restore these important routes,” said Hyde-Smith in the statement. She serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“I commend Secretary Elaine Chao and the U.S. Department of Transportation for approving Mississippi’s request for emergency relief funds to repair roads and bridges damaged by recent flooding across our state,” Wicker added.  “These funds will help support recovery efforts and ensure residents can travel safely to and from their homes and businesses.”

Mississippi Department of Transportation will receive $18.5 million in Emergency Relief Program funding, while $125,000 in Emergency Relief for Federally Owned Roads Program will go to the Army Corps. Eligible repair work includes projects to restore essential traffic, minimize further damage or protect facilities.