Lake Lure awarded $1.3M in FEMA funds for storm damage

Lake Lure has been allocated $1,336,595.51 in federal disaster assistance. The money will repair the Boys Camp Road Bridge and restore the town's dam gates. This award is part of a wider $11 million package for Helene recovery efforts in North Carolina.

Mayor Carol Pritchett stated that Hurricane Helene completely demolished the bridge. The structure connected more than 200 residents to the rest of the town. Pritchett said the bridge is expected to reopen in approximately one week.

The dam gates allow the town to regulate lake water levels. Pritchett noted that controlling the water is necessary not just during storms but at all times. The city will use $582,772.16 for the gate repairs and $753,823.35 for the bridge.

Pritchett said the town still requires funding for other damaged infrastructure. These items include the wastewater treatment plant, sewer system, dam, and town hall. She argued that the local government relies heavily on federal aid for such projects.

Resident Becky Melton supported the federal intervention. She said the community had waited a long time for assistance. Tourist Dennis Misell observed that while recovery has been difficult, the area looks better than he anticipated upon his recent visit.