Press Releases

Today, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL 24), the only Democratic member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in Congress from Florida, announces over $220 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation dedicated to Florida as part of the Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief Program. This funding comes in light of Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole. 

“Year after year, Florida is often ground zero for some of the worst hurricanes our nation faces. As a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am always fighting for Floridians, working tirelessly to secure the essential infrastructure required for their everyday lives. This commitment becomes even more crucial in the aftermath of hurricanes, where damaged roads, toppled electricity poles, and disruptions to daily transportation underscore the urgency of our efforts,” said Congresswoman Frederica Wilson. “That’s why I take pride in my efforts to secure funding for Florida, addressing the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Ian and Nicole. This funding will go directly to help uplift the communities most impacted in Florida by these deadly hurricanes and will ensure Floridians' daily lives can recover This funding stands as a testament to the leadership of President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg, prioritizing people over politics and ensuring the safety and sustainability of travel for our residents in times of emergency."

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on January 23rd:

• $145,092,268 to the Florida Department of Transportation to support Hurricane Ian Repairs
• $72,185,195 for the Florida Department of Transportation to support Hurricane Nicole Repairs
• $3,632,795 for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to support Florida Hurricane Ian Repairs
• $1,321,169 for the Florida Forest Service to support Hurricane Ian Repairs
• $1,008,905 for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support Florida Hurricane Ian Repairs

Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief Program funding was continued thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson was one of five original cosponsors supporting the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, or the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Hurricane Ian made landfall in southwest Florida on September 28, 2022, as a strong Category 4 hurricane with catastrophic storm surges in excess of 10 feet in many places and heavy rainfall for several days. It was the deadliest hurricane to strike Florida since the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane. Storm surge and flooding eroded a levee and resulted in washouts of roads and bridges. Hurricane Nicole made landfall along Florida's East coast on November 10, 2022.

To see the full press release from the Federal Highway Administration, click here.

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