Tennessee Utility, College Get Federal Relief for Tornado Damage

The federal government approved $5.7 million in disaster assistance funding for two Tennessee institutions that suffered tornado damage, Gov. Phil Bredesen said.

These grants are part of the federal Public Assistance program administered by FEMA for declared federal disasters in 2006 and 2008.

Memphis Light, Gas and Water will receive $2.4 million in reimbursement for repairs to storm damage to the electrical distribution system caused by Feb. 5 storms that spawned multiple deadly tornadoes in the state. The public utility replaced two transmission towers and 150 poles, repaired a damaged substation and replaced major equipment to restore power to customers in the Memphis area.

Feds approved a $3.3 million grant to reimburse the state for costs to repair several buildings that were damaged by a tornado in April 2006 that struck Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin. The grant covers 75 percent of the state’s costs to meet the $5 million deductible on property insured by the state.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency provides budget oversight for issuance of the funds and manages the grant process Public Assistance applicants.

The federal public assistance program provides funding for debris removal, emergency protective measures, roads and bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, public utilities and public recreational facilities.

Source: Office of the Governor of Tennessee