Bingaman & Udall Urge President to Act Quickly to Aid Ruidoso

Press Release

U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman and Rep. Tom Udall today sent letters to President Bush asking him to quickly approve Gov. Bill Richardson's request to declare Ruidoso and surrounding areas a national disaster area.

The New Mexico lawmakers pointed out that Ruidoso has already received at least six inches of rain as Hurricane Dolly moved through the area, and that more than 60 homes, as well as roads and bridges, suffered serious damage.

"As the Rio Ruidoso rose beyond its banks over the weekend area emergency response personnel were called upon to cross fast flowing streams and arroyos in order to rescue stranded campers and homeowners. These crews deserve recognition for their fast response and dedication to keeping the residents of Ruidoso safe during this treacherous period," Bingaman wrote in his letter. "I strongly support the state's request and urge you to act with all speed in declaring a national disaster and getting much needed funding and support to the area."

"The unexpected flooding in Ruidoso has left many residents displaced and caused tremendous structural damage," said Udall, who spent the weekend in Ruidoso and toured the city with officials Monday morning. "As I saw firsthand in Ruidoso over the weekend and while touring the flood-damaged areas Monday, the community has performed with great solidarity through this challenging time and will now need our help to clean up and rebuild. I will work with the rest of the delegation to make sure the Ruidoso community gets the proper and necessary assistance during this time."

A national disaster declaration would pave the way for federal disaster aid. Richardson is seeking aid to help individuals, business owners and the community as a whole.

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