Governor McCrory Tours Lumberton, Provides Update on Hurricane Matthew Recovery Efforts | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Publisher's note: Stay connected to BCN for all of our many Hurricane Mathew updates.

Press Release:

    Lumberton, N.C.     Governor Pat McCrory visited three locations affected by Hurricane Matthew in Lumberton today, where he also provided an update on recovery efforts across the state. The governor also announced a fatality in Lenoir County related to Hurricane Matthew, bringing the total storm-related deaths to 28.

    "Today I have witnessed the best of Robeson County with people coming together to help those in need," said Governor McCrory. "As we continue to rebuild and recover from this devastating storm, we realize that there are still many who are suffering. We will continue to work with locals, volunteers and our federal partners to ensure our state recovers as quickly as possible."

    The governor first stopped at West Lumberton Elementary School, which remains closed due to flooding from Hurricane Matthew. Governor McCrory met with the superintendent and principal to discuss the impact this storm has had on schools, teachers and students in the area. Later, he toured the Lumberton Water Treatment Plant and Sandy Grove Baptist Church, where he addressed the media.

    The governor commended the church for coming together and collecting much-needed supplies for members of the community. The governor has directed additional state highway patrol troopers to help direct traffic and protect property at the church while it serves as a temporary donation site.

    Governor McCrory said that preliminary damage assessments are ongoing and will likely be complete next week. He also revealed that he and his team are in the process of outlining a request for disaster relief legislation at the state and federal levels, which will include a projected timeline for a special legislative session. The governor said he hoped that this session will address the school calendar.

    Robeson County is eligible for both public and individual assistance. To date, 41 counties in eastern and central North Carolina have been approved for public assistance, while 35 counties have now qualified for individual assistance.

• Contact: McCrory Communications
•     govpress@nc.gov