Old Fort is witnessing a significant boost in water system resilience with new investments recently highlighted by Governor Josh Stein and DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson. Aiming to fortify the town against future calamities, they discussed funding that would enhance local water and sewer systems. According to a press release, Old Fort is slated to receive $15 million from the pot of $270 million earmarked for 58 water systems across 26 counties. These counties had previously endured the effects of Hurricane Helene.
It appears that North Carolina stands first in line among states affected by Hurricane Helene, having been the quickest to allocate federal funds from EPA’s disaster programs dealing with drinking and clean water concerns exclusively to the town. The move resonates with Governor Stein's focus on urgency and transparency as part of the recovery strategy for western North Carolina. Governor Stein said in a statement obtained by the Governor's office, “Just like so many towns across western North Carolina, Old Fort suffered the deluge of Hurricane Helene.” Reinforcement of the drinking water and sewer systems is intended to ensure that, even in the midst of storms, "These investments will help the town shore up its drinking water and sewer systems so families can count on safe and reliable services, even when storms hit."
The DEQ is playing a crucial role in this preventive strategy, with Secretary Reid Wilson underscoring the importance of investing in water infrastructure post-Helene. “Public health is our top priority at DEQ, and that starts with ensuring each North Carolinian has access to clean drinking water. With these water infrastructure grants, we’re on our way to achieving this goal," Wilson stated, as noted by the Governor's office. These grants are part of a wider project aimed at bolstering water infrastructure, including improvement of drinking water system resiliency and wastewater resiliency in places like Chimney Rock Village, the Town of Clyde, and the Town of Crossnore.
Amidst the rebuilding efforts, Governor Stein remains dedicated to not just repairing but also preparing western North Carolina for any impending storms. Earlier this fall, hopping from town to town, Governor Stein also announced a $6 million investment in flood mitigation projects, which will protect the western North Carolina rivers. Within this year alone, Stein has unveiled more than $356 million in awards directed at repairing and rejuvenating water systems affected by Hurricane Helene, climbing up to more than $850 million in statewide water infrastructure awards. Such fiscal moves are part of a quarterly approval process overseen by the North Carolina State Water Infrastructure Authority. For those interested in securing funding for water infrastructure repair and upgrades, applications remain open until March 2, 2026. The details can be found in the same press release.
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