Federal Department of Transportation hands out funds

Saturday, Jan. 11, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

The Department of Transportation announced Friday that the money is part of a total of $42 million in emergency relief funds awarded to five Western states.

The Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief program made the money available after emergency proclamations were issued and each state filed preliminary damage assessments.

"I've seen first hand the devastation caused by the flood throughout Northern Nevada," said U.S. Sen. Richard Bryan, D-Nev. "These funds will bring much-needed relief to begin repairs to vital highways and bridges."

When the flood waters have receded entirely, the federal agency will assess damages again and may award additional funding.

The funds are meant to reimburse the state for emergency work already completed and to provide funding for other repairs. Repair work will include establishing emergency detours, removing debris, reconstructing bridges and pavement and replacing signs, lighting and rails.

At least one Nevada highway has already undergone such work. On Friday, Interstate-80 reopened east of Reno, almost a week after floods collapsed a section of the road.

Flooding on I-80 had created an acre-large, 100-foot-deep hole that was filled with 125,000 cubic yards of dirt and rock. Granite Construction completed the $1.8 million repair job in 91 hours, four days ahead of schedule.

Also open are State Route 88 between the California state line and U.S. 395, and Muller Lane between U.S. 395 and Foothill Lane in Gardnerville.

"The Department of Transportation has been responsive to our needs during this difficult time," Bryan said.

Bryan also praised local and federal efforts to shore up the diversion dam at Topaz Lake.

"Everyone involved in this effort acted quickly and efficiently," Bryan said. "Teamwork is essential in a case like this - and that's precisely what happened."