Idaho Receives Federal Emergency Funds After Landslide

LEWISTON, Idaho (KLIX)-The federal government has given half a million dollars to help rebuild after a massive rock slide isolated a Northern Idaho community.

Idaho Transportation Department officials say $500,000 in emergency funds from the Federal Highway Administration will go to repair damage by the February 18^th land slide that closed Idaho 14 near Elk City. The slide blocked the main way in and out for several communities in the area. Idaho Governor Butch Otter declared the county a disaster area allowing the funds to be released to the state.

“ These Quick Release funds are extremely important to address costs associated with early disaster responses,” said Mel Coulter, ITD’s Emergency Program supervisor. “The disaster declaration by Gov. Otter was the key factor in allowing us to apply for and receive the special FHWA funds.” A Forest Service road is being used as a temporary detour route for people that live in the area.