Logan given permission to use federal funding for demolition work

The City of Logan will be allowed to use federal funding to acquire and demolish five residential properties damaged in severe storms.

Governor Earl Ray Tomblin and Congressman Nick Rahall Wednesday announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided a waiver to permit the city to use federal funds to perform the necessary work.

With the waiver, city officials will demolish five residential properties on Pine Street in Logan and permanently close the roadway. The waiver also includes permitting the city to pave seven city-owned streets.

Under the agreement, the roadway will not be eligible for Public Assistance funding in any future major disaster or emergency declarations.

Pine Street sustained considerable damage from severe storms, flooding, mudslides and landslides between March 15 and 31, 2012, making repairs and restoration difficult and costly.

Rahall contacted FEMA Director Craig Fugate directly and pressed the agency for the waiver.