Congressman Cohen Announces $2.4 Million Grant for MLGW
“As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, I worked closely with FEMA Director David Paulison in the aftermath of these devastating storms and tornadoes,” said Congressman Cohen. “Mr. Paulison assured me then that FEMA would assist the people of the 9th District in helping to pay for the rebuilding of our essential public utilities infrastructure, and I am very pleased that today, they have followed through. Working with Congresswoman Blackburn from the 7th District as well as Senators Alexander and Corker, I was able to ensure that the costs for rebuilding parts of our electrical distribution system would not unfairly burden Memphis and Shelby County taxpayers. This grant will hopefully help MLGW keep costs down in this era of record energy prices, and I thank FEMA on behalf of the people of the 9th District.”
The damage included 150 broken poles, 75 single phase dead end taps, 15 single transformers, 200 three phase conductors, and significant problems with the substation. Additionally, two transmission towers were blown over and will be replaced. The total cost of the rebuilding project was $3,215,693.00, of which FEMA assumed a 75% share. MLGW will be responsible for the remaining $803,923.25 of the cost.
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Contact:
Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, 202-225-3265
Charlie Gerber, Communications Assistant, 202-225-3265