FEMA Grants Rare Foundation Removal Coverage For Homes Damaged In The Marshall Fire Following Letter From Bennet, Hickenlooper, Neguse

Statement

Today, Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper and U.S. Congressman Joe Neguse announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has agreed to cover the costs of removing foundations, basements and burned vehicles damaged in the Marshall Fire. Bennet, Hickenlooper, and Neguse sent a letter two weeks ago requesting that these items be included in FEMA's Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program. The coverage is extremely rare and has only been granted for a handful of other wildfires in recent years.

"I'm grateful FEMA swiftly responded to our request to help cover the cost of debris removal from damaged homes, buildings and vehicles," said Bennet. "This will help ease the burden on Coloradans as they work to rebuild after this disaster. I'll keep working with the administration to ensure the federal government remains an effective partner."

"FEMA's coverage of foundation removal is a rare and critical step for Boulder County's recovery," said Hickenlooper. "We are so grateful to FEMA for their extortionary support towards making the onerous rebuilding process a little more affordable."

"I'm incredibly grateful to FEMA for acting so swiftly to grant our request and approve coverage of damaged basements, foundations and vehicles for homeowners who are seeing significant costs in the recovery process," said Neguse. "In the wake of this tragedy, we must ensure that every homeowner and business owner is getting the support and recovery funds they need to rebuild, repair and get their lives back on track."

"Debris removal, including foundation removal, after the Marshall Fire is the top priority for Superior as property owners work to rebuild," said Superior Mayor Clint Folsom. "I'm grateful for Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and Congressman Neguse for their continued work to support our communities."

"Debris removal is a critical part of helping families and business owners rebuild after the Marshall Fire, which damaged countless homes and structures in our community," said Louisville Mayor Ashley Stolzmann. "I thank Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and Congressman Neguse for their efforts to ensure FEMA will cover the cost of debris removal to help our community continue on the road to recovery."

The destructive nature of the Marshall Fire rendered thousands of structures throughout Louisville, Superior, and Boulder County unserviceable. The foundations left behind are now posing a health and safety threat to the communities and blocking rebuilding efforts. With this FEMA approval, Boulder County can expect to be reimbursed for the costs of removing damaged home foundations, which is currently a part of the coordinated debris removal program through Boulder County, Superior, and Louisville.

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