Baton Rouge Reporter

U.S. Congressman Garret Graves announced federal disaster reimbursements totaling $31,792,820.68 for the Bayou Region, specifically benefiting Lafourche Parish, Terrebonne Parish, Port Fourchon, and the South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association (SLECA). These funds are aimed at aiding recovery efforts following Hurricane Ida.

Graves expressed concerns over the delayed distribution of these funds. "These funds are welcome but come with consequences when delivered years later – skyrocketing inflation shortens the length that these critical rebuilding funds can go," he stated. He emphasized the importance of investing in hurricane and flood protection projects to save taxpayer dollars in the long run. "We will continue to deliver disaster recovery funds to our communities that need it and push for funding and action on critical projects that keep our communities safe year-round."

The allocation includes $2,620,375.20 for replacing the Golden Meadows Library in Lafourche Parish and $4,268,535.64 for permanent restoration work on Larose Cutoff Middle School campus and other schools in Lafourche Parish School Board's jurisdiction. Terrebonne Parish is set to receive $1,083,168.59 for repairs to pump stations and retention ponds, while its school board will get $18,131,880.53 for restoring H.L Bourgeois High School and other facilities.

Port Fourchon will benefit from $1,449,507.47 dedicated to work on Site 11 Airport Hangar. SLECA is allocated $4,239,353.25 for restoring electrical transmission lines affected by Hurricane Ida.

Graves highlighted issues with FEMA's pace in fund distribution: "These vital Hurricane Ida repair funds are as appreciated as they are needed, but I must point out that we’re paying for damages that occurred three years ago." He added that recent legislation passed in committee aims to expedite assistance delivery so recovery efforts can commence without delay.