VDOT Expects Hurricane Helene Cleanup to Take 3 to 6 Months

The Virginia Department of Transportation estimates a three to six-month timeline for debris cleanup resulting from Hurricane Helene, which caused dramatic damages exceeding $4 billion and claimed three lives. Steps are being taken to remove an estimated 511,000 cubic yards of debris, while federal funding is being pursued to support recovery initiatives and infrastructure rebuilding efforts.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has projected that the cleanup of debris resulting from Hurricane Helene will require approximately three to six months to complete. The hurricane devastated parts of Appalachia, causing significant destruction and resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The storm inflicted over $4 billion in damages across the region, leading VDOT to develop a comprehensive debris removal plan that will be presented to the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board at an upcoming meeting.

Jessica Cowardin, a spokesperson for VDOT, noted that the debris collection is a systematic, route-by-route operation, focusing on ensuring safety by removing any potential hazards, such as leaning trees and soil slides. Hurricane Helene, which made landfall on September 26 in Florida before striking Southwest Virginia on September 27, caused the New River to surge to alarming levels, impacting power services for countless residents and damaging numerous businesses. In response, Governor Glenn Youngkin has engaged with federal and state partners to seek expedited federal support for recovery efforts.

As part of the cleanup, an estimated 511,000 cubic yards of debris were scattered across the impacted areas. To date, VDOT has removed approximately 110,000 cubic yards of debris, with contractors contributing an additional 6,000 cubic yards. The estimation of these efforts was informed by data from previous disasters. The Virginia state has established a Debris Task Force that comprises agencies such as FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, all working in unison to manage the response and cleanup.

One of the ongoing removal projects includes clearing around 135 acres of debris from Claytor Lake, utilizing advanced equipment such as hydraulic excavators and cranes. Earlier in October, FEMA announced a significant financial commitment to assist with debris removal operations in both Claytor Lake and the South Holston Lake Area, recognizing the inherent challenges of underwater debris cleanup. Furthermore, VDOT anticipates that the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, including roads and bridges, will extend over a timeline of about 12 months, with seven roadways and four structures still awaiting repairs.

Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September 2023, significantly impacting Southwest Virginia and leading to immense infrastructure and ecological damage. VDOT’s response includes a defined strategy for debris removal that involves collaboration with various state and federal agencies. Given the scale of the damages and destruction, including the loss of life and widespread power outages, the state’s recovery operations are a major public concern, prompting federal assistance requests to accelerate the process.

In summary, the Virginia Department of Transportation is undertaking a methodical approach to debris removal following Hurricane Helene, estimating the process may last between three to six months. With significant funding from federal agencies, VDOT is working to ensure that all affected areas are cleared of debris and that infrastructure repairs can commence effectively while prioritizing safety and thoroughness in their efforts.

Original Source: virginiamercury.com