After Helene: Carter County prepares for long road to recovery
CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — More than a month after Hurricane Helene brought disastrous flooding to the Tri-Cities region, Carter County continues to navigate the catastrophe.
On Thursday, News Channel 11 was live throughout the evening with different county leaders in Elizabethton. Guests spoke on-camera about the way Carter County has weathered the storms and will rebuild.
Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby spoke about the process of rebuilding homes and how the county has taken steps to make it easier for homeowners. She also discussed the county’s long-term plan for recovery and how people can stay informed.
Carter County EMA Director Billy Harrell answered questions about damage totals and estimates. According to Harrell, 74 homes in Carter County were destroyed with another 649 damaged. Harrell said preliminary estimates place the cost of damages around $150 million.
Shannon Burchett, Carter County’s highway superintendent, said the damage to roads is extensive. Eighty roads were damaged by Helene, resulting in 84 miles of repairs needed. Burchett also told News Channel 11 that several Carter County bridges are either still closed or were destroyed.
County property assessor Shane Simerly was unable to join News Channel 11 live, but Woodby provided information on his behalf as to how the storm damage will impact property assessment for the next tax year.
Carter County Schools returned to classes on Monday, with the exception of the relocated Hampton High School. Those students returned on Tuesday. Director of Schools Brandon Carpenter answered questions regarding the first week back to school and what the school district plans to do in the long term about Hampton High School.
Rick Brewer with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) also spoke about the agency’s presence in the area and shared information about how people can get assistance.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
