Massachusetts City Gets $25M in Tornado-Related Aid

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Springfield, Mass., has received a settlement of $25 million in federal disaster aid for damages caused by a tornado that struck the city in 2011.

Mayor Domenic Sarno and U.S. Rep. Richard Neal announced Monday the money would help pay for several civic improvement projects, including a new senior center.

The announcement came after two years of negotiations with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which initially offered the city $4.2 million for damages associated with the June 1, 2011 tornado.

Springfield, Mass., July 8, 2011 -- A local community devastated by the June 1 tornado that hit the town of Springfield and western Massachusetts. Alberto Pillot/FEMA — Springfield, Mass., July 8, 2011 — A local community devastated by the June 1 tornado that hit the town of Springfield and western Massachusetts. Alberto Pillot/FEMA

A series of tornadoes that touched down in Hampden County killed three people, and destroyed or damaged 1,400 houses and nearly 80 businesses.

The money will also be used for a new South End Community Center and the renovation and expansion of the Clifford Phaneuf environmental science center at Forest Park.