Special to The News

AUSTIN – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded more than $9.2 million for Orange County debris removal following Hurricane Harvey.

The city removed 658,598 cubic yards of vegetation, e-waste (computers and electronics), large appliances, as well as construction, demolition and hazardous waste debris from public rights of way. The activity included collection from rights of way as well as hauling, staging, reducing and monitoring of the debris.

The cost of the debris removal in Orange County is nearly $10.3 million. The grant of more than $9.2 million is the federal share of the cost and requires a 10 percent nonfederal match by the applicant, or $1,029,677.

This grant comes from FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program, which reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the state. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible recipients receive these awards. Following the state’s review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the recipients on a reimbursable basis.