Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has announced significant progress in securing federal funding for Eastern Kentucky's long-term recovery efforts following the devastating floods of July 2022. McConnell expressed his commitment to supporting the region, stating, "Today, I’m proud to see nearly $300 million in long-term recovery funding move closer toward rebuilding homes and communities, revitalizing the local economy, and supporting survivors who still need our help."

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has approved Kentucky's 2022 Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) action plan, which outlines the distribution of $297,994,000 in federal funding to 20 Eastern Kentucky counties affected by the floods. McConnell played a crucial role in securing this funding through his leadership on legislation, including advocating for an additional $3 billion in CDBG-DR funding for communities impacted by natural disasters.

The federal funding will be administered by the Commonwealth of Kentucky in coordination with local leaders to ensure responsible investment in rebuilding efforts. The 20 eligible counties for funding under the CDBG-DR program include Breathitt, Casey, Clay, Cumberland, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Whitley, and Wolfe.

McConnell's dedication to supporting Eastern Kentucky's recovery efforts extends beyond securing funding, as he continues to work closely with local leaders to ensure that federal dollars are effectively utilized for the region's benefit.