Gov. Lee sets aside $100 million towards Helene recovery as part of HEAL program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — As East Tennesseans continue to recover from Helene , Governor Bill Lee announced $100 million to help clear debris and restore infrastructure.

This money is eligible to be used by the following heavily-affected counties:

• Carter
• Claiborne
• Cocke
• Grainger
• Greene
• Hamblen
• Hawkins
• Jefferson
• Johnson
• Sevier
• Sullivan
• Unicoi
• Washington

In a press conference, Lee explained how this is part of the Helene Emergency Assistance Loans (HEAL) program . Lee said that he believes now is the time for the state to heal after this disaster.

Thirty-five million dollars have been dedicated to addressing water and wastewater system damage. The remaining $65 million is meant to be divided evenly among eligible communities to address debris removal. Lee categorized the state’s response as “ survivor-centric ” in a briefing on Oct. 2. He repeated that categorization again at a press conference on Thursday.

In terms of federal dollars, the governor spoke about the continued collaboration with FEMA and other governmental agencies. For instance, the U.S. Department of Transportation granted $32 million to the state for recovery efforts. A portion of Interstate 26 reopened for local motorists on Thursday.

Lee attributed Tennessee’s fiscal conservatism as the reason for their position in making government work for the people. Lee also commended all the volunteers and communities that have provided help to Tennesseans in need.

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