WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx today announced the immediate availability of $1.6 million in Emergency Relief (ER) funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to help begin repairs to roads and bridges damaged by flooding in Wisconsin.

“These floodwaters have impacted the residents and businesses statewide,” said Secretary Foxx. “This money will ensure critical repairs are made to keep affected communities connected to vital services and emergency relief.”

From August into September, the state experienced severe weather throughout Buffalo and Trempealeau Counties. Severe storms caused major flooding, resulting in washouts of roads, culverts and multi-use paths.  Roads in more than 15 counties in central Wisconsin suffered additional damage from flash floods and extreme runoff.

A total of $1,615,000 in “quick release” funding will be used to stabilize, rebuild and repair damaged embankments, roadways and bridges.

“We want to do whatever we can to help the state move forward on the repairs needed to restore vital transportation links,” said Federal Highway Administrator Gregory Nadeau. “Our mission is to help Wisconsinites get their lives back to normal and relieve the toll on their economy.”

This initial “quick release” payment is considered a down payment on the costs of short-term repairs now which can make long-term repair work possible in the weeks ahead. The FHWA’s ER program provides funding for highways and bridges damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events.