MONTPELIER — Gov. Phil Scott has requested federal disaster funds to help pay for damage from severe storms that swept through seven Vermont counties June 29 through July 1.
FEMA’s initial assessment identifies $4.7 million in public infrastructure damage in communities in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Orange, Rutland, Washington and Windsor counties, exceeding the $1 million minimum for the state to qualify for federal disaster declaration.
The storms dumped 2 to 5 inches of rain over much of the state, which was already saturated from heavy June rains. Roads and railroad tracks were washed out and a sinkhole opened on Interstate 89 in Hartford.
President Donald Trump will decide on the request after receiving FEMA’s review.
In a press conference Thursday, Scott acknowledged a concern that Trump might reject the request because Scott and the state’s congressional delegation have opposed the president’s policies. Pennsylvania and North Carolina have had disaster relief requests rejected.
“I’ve thought about it,” Scott said, adding he hoped it wouldn’t happen.
If granted, a public assistance disaster declaration would allow communities in designated counties to receive 75 percent reimbursement for storm response and recovery.
The declaration request also seeks funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides 75 percent reimbursement for projects that reduce the likelihood of damage to public infrastructure in future disasters.
Mark Johnson contributed to this report.
