Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts at Blue Ridge Parkway Underway

Following Hurricane Helene, the Blue Ridge Parkway has sustained notable damage, including landslides and destruction of facilities. The NPS has reopened over 312 miles and is undertaking emergency repairs at multiple locations. Recovery efforts will be lengthy and are supported by federal funding. Updates on the Parkway’s status are available online.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Blue Ridge Parkway has experienced substantial damage, with the National Park Service (NPS) identifying at least 57 landslides over nearly 200 miles in North Carolina. The storm caused extensive destruction to park facilities and critical infrastructure, affecting both natural and cultural landscapes. Restoration efforts are ongoing, as nearly 312 miles of the Parkway have been reopened following extensive debris removal and assessments conducted by the NPS.

Superintendent Tracy Swartout commented on the situation, stating, “As with our surrounding communities, we have made significant progress, but the Parkway’s path to permanent repair and recovery will be a long one.” Funding for the extensive recovery efforts will derive from various sources, including part of the $2 billion in supplemental disaster funding allocated by Congress to aid the NPS.

The NPS has commenced emergency roadway repairs at eight locations impacted by landslides to ensure safety and restore access. Initial repair sites span from Milepost 224.9, north of Doughton Park, to Milepost 421.8, near Waynesville, NC. The projected completion of these repairs is anticipated between late summer and early fall of 2025.

The Linville Falls area has experienced the greatest concentration of damage, which has necessitated the closure of certain road and trail sections for visitor safety due to ongoing heavy construction. Monitoring the Parkway’s conditions is crucial, especially as winter weather has caused several closures in Virginia.

For the latest updates on road conditions and recovery progress, the public is encouraged to visit the NPS website and follow the park’s social media channels. Updated information regarding storm damage is also available for public access online.

In summary, significant storm recovery efforts are underway at the Blue Ridge Parkway following Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact. The National Park Service is actively working to restore the extensive damage while prioritizing visitor safety. Continued updates will be provided through the park’s official channels, reflecting the ongoing commitment to recover park resources and infrastructure effectively.

Original Source: wataugaonline.com