U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the U.S. House of Representatives has approved federal funding for flood control efforts in the Town of Martin. Today, the House passed the FY10 Energy & Water Appropriations Conference Report, which included $9.5 million for flood control and flood damage reduction activities along the Levisa and Tug forks of the Big Sandy and Cumberland Rivers. The legislation requires the Corps to dedicate at least $3 million towards activities in Martin, and directs the Corps to expedite the acquisition of eligible structures impacted by the May 2009 flooding event. Following Senate passage, this legislation is expected to move to the White House to be signed into law.

“I am pleased to see that my colleagues in Congress made funding for the town of Martin a priority,” said Rogers. “Martin has a history of devastating flooding and the May 2009 storms were yet another blow to a community that is facing so many challenges from natural disasters. This funding is a positive step that brings renewed hope as the Corps will immediately start buying out structures damaged by the recent floods. Despite the hurdles that may lie ahead, these vital funds are making the relocation of the town of Martin a reality so that families and businesses can re-establish their roots, breathe life into the local economy and restore this vibrant community.”

Phase I of the project, construction of the elevated commercial re-development site, is 100% complete. This legislation directs the Corps to expedite the Phase 3 and Phase 4 acquisition of properties that were damaged by the floodwaters in the May 2009 flood event. Approximately 180 commercial and residential structures in the mandatory and voluntary acquisition programs will ultimately be eligible to participate. The Corps is expected to move forward with relevant pre-acquisition activities in the near future, including a landowners meeting, title searches and property appraisals. To date, Rogers has secured nearly $30 million for the flood control project in Martin.

Rogers works to obtain federal funding for projects across southern and eastern Kentucky in his role as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.