TOPEKA (KSNT) – Federal officials have greenlit more than $3 million for the City of Topeka to assist with infrastructure recovery after a January 2024 severe freeze event.
The City of Topeka announced on Feb. 19 in a press release that it has received approval for over $3.7 million in reimbursements from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. These reimbursements are tied to infrastructure damage caused during a severe winter weather event in early 2024 that led the city to declare a boil water advisory.
The federal disaster declaration for Jan. 8-16 in 2024 allows the City of Topeka to be reimbursed for 85% of the eligible repair and restoration costs. The city and local residents were hit hard by strong winds, snow and extreme cold during this period of time.
- Approved projects
- Emergency water main break repairs and chemical line work.
- Replacement of a chemical line.
- Rehabilitation and restoration of a wastewater treatment plant digester.
Old Johnny Carino’s restaurant demolished in west Topeka
“FEMA assistance plays a critical role in protecting rate payer dollars when natural disasters occur. This reimbursement ensures the City does not have to cover 100% of the costs. The remaining 15% will be managed within the department’s existing budget.”
City of Topeka press release excerpt
The City of Topeka said that its Utilities department staffers helped document and make possible the federal reimbursement.
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