Norton Asks FEMA for Disaster Relief for WMATA
In a letter today, D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency for disaster relief assistance for Metro in the wake of this month's historic snow storms.
The transit agency announced Thursday that February's massive snowfall cost Metro at least an estimated $18 million -- $8 million worth of snow removal efforts, and $9.7 million in lost revenue.
Metro could receive federal assistance through each of the three states jurisdictions in which it operates. The District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia are each believed to be preparing official requests for disaster declarations. But Norton's request is for FEMA to consider WMATA as its own local government entity, so that Metro-specific funds might be allocated to the system. It's unclear whether there is any precedent for such a request.
Norton serves as chairperson of the House Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, which has jurisdiction over declarations of disasters. Last week, she similarly requested FEMA funds for the District.
Full letter below the jump.
February 18, 2010Craig Fugate
Administrator
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Department of Homeland Security
500 C Street, SW
Washington, DC 20472Dear Administrator Fugate:
As you know, the recent snowstorms that struck the National Capital Region this month have taken a large physical and financial toll on the region. These storms resulted in record snow fall amounts. Among the entities hardest hit were the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro).
The challenges faced by Metro are just as enormous and significant as the challenges the local jurisdictions continue to experience. During these storms, Metro’s rail and bus system was able to provide only limited service, which affected not only the local jurisdiction, but particularly the ability of the federal government itself to open and staff facilities.
As you are aware, Metro is within the definition of a local government under section 102(7) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122(7), and therefore should the president declare a Major Disaster or an Emergency, Metro would be eligible for assistance under FEMA's Public Assistance program. It is my understanding that the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia are preparing to request declarations and that Virginia has already received a major disaster declaration for the December snowstorm.
However, as a multi-state entity, Metro faces unique challenges. I understand that if the president declares Major Disasters or Emergencies that Metro likely will receive assistance separately through each of the states in which they operate. However, considering how unusual it is to be faced with a tri-state local entity under the Stafford Act, I would ask that FEMA provide the greatest flexibility in its administrative requirements so as not to unnecessarily add to the operational burdens that Metro faces.
Sincerely,
Eleanor Holmes Norton