ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — North Carolina officials say federal funds tied to Tropical Storm Helene recovery could assist communities like Asheville and Chimney Rock with long-standing water infrastructure issues.
Cathy Akroyd, public information officer for the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Infrastructure, confirmed the Helene-related supplemental appropriations are available to eligible local governments in Western North Carolina, including Asheville and Chimney Rock.
These communities “can apply for funding as long as their proposed projects meet eligibility requirements,” Akroyd said. “Our Division of Water Infrastructure has actually been talking with Chimney Rock and Asheville about this funding and their needs.”
The division hosted four workshops across the region May 20-23, in Boone, Hickory, Rutherfordton and Asheville, with representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Officials from Asheville and Chimney Rock attended, according to the agency. Additional training sessions are planned for late July and early August, with dates and locations to be announced soon.
The funding, known as State Revolving Fund Helene (SA-HMW) Loans, is a long-term, zero-interest loan with principal forgiveness designated for Helene-impacted areas.