Update: Governor Sends Request to President Obama for Assistance in Tsunami Recovery

Press Release

Governor Neil Abercrombie today signed a request for a Presidential Disaster Declaration asking for federal assistance to help pay for the damage to public infrastructure caused by the tsunami that hit the state on March 11, 2011.

This declaration would enable counties (Hawai'i County, Maui County, and the City and County of Honolulu) damaged by the Honshu (Tohoku) Tsunami to recover some of the costs of rebuilding and repairing damaged public infrastructure, such as buildings and harbors. Preliminary estimates for damage to public infrastructure total $8.5 million.

The State Civil Defense is also coordinating with state and county agencies to open a Disaster Assistance and Recovery Center at the Old Kona Airport Event Pavilion, located at 75-5530 Kuakini Highway, from Tuesday, March 29 to Wednesday, March 30 at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. State agencies and community groups will be there to answer questions from residents and businesses affected by the tsunami on a wide range of programs and services.

On Thursday, Governor Abercrombie also formally requested an Administrative Disaster Declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help Hawai'i Island homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits affected by the tsunami.

Residents and business owners should report any damage to their property, home or business to Aloha United Way by dialing 2-1-1 (Monday through Friday) or to the State Civil Defense toll free line at 855-211-7456 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Aloha United Way's 2-1-1 operators will record damage reports and refer them to the proper agencies. The 2-1-1 line is taking calls Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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