Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates and More 6/30/25

Chimney Rock State Park Reopens!

Governor Josh Stein today reopened Chimney Rock State Park and announced “Rediscover the Unforgettable,” a new tourism initiative to bring more visitors back to western North Carolina. Advanced reservations are required to access the park, which will be open with limited hours. At the reopening, Governor Stein also signed House Bill 1012: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 - Part II into law.  Read more here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do reservations work? Reservations are offered in 1-hour time slots. Please plan to arrive within the 1-hour window you have reserved. When you drive up to the Ticket Plaza, have the tickets attached to your reservation email ready to be scanned. Afterwards, stay and explore the Park until gates close at 7:00 PM!

How many reservations will you accept per hour? At first, availability will come down to the number of parking spaces in our top parking lot. We hope to expand capacity very soon, so please check back often as we start adding more available spots each day.

Do I need to pay online for my reservation? For now, yes. We’re working to adjust our system to be able to accept cash reservations so please stay tuned!

How do I enter the Park? Thanks to the NCDOT’s new temporary bridge, you can access the Park in your own vehicle. The bridge entrance is in Chimney Rock Village next to the Harley-Davidson building. There will be signs guiding you where to go. Once inside the Park, head up the mountain to check-in at the Ticket Plaza and enjoy your day!

Will my Annual Pass be extended? Yes! To make sure you still get your full year of Park access, all Passholders who had an active pass at the time of the closure will automatically have their pass extended by the number of days you missed during the closure. Plus, we’ll round it up to the end of your new expiration month so you can squeeze in a few extra visits. It’s our way of saying thanks for sticking with us. Your extension begins June 27, whether you visit right away or later.

UPDATES FROM THE GOVERNOR

 

Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 1012: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 - Part II:

“I thank the General Assembly for passing a $575 million Helene Response and Recovery Act Part II. This funding will help us fight wildfires, prevent landslides, fix homes, repair dams, and support our schools and local governments. It also extends our State of Emergency until October 1, 2025 so that we can continue to expedite recovery efforts, especially our efforts to repair private roads and bridges. I am pleased that it passed both chambers unanimously, and I am proud to be signing it into law. We must keep standing up for western North Carolina to help them recover.” 

Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 576: Dept. of Health and Human Services Revisions:

“This is a comprehensive bill that strengthens our state Department of Health and Human Services' ability to serve North Carolinians more effectively and efficiently. This bill makes it easier for counties to get people enrolled in Medicaid. It also helps county social services get emergency court orders after-hours to protect adults who may be experiencing abuse or neglect. Finally, it supports DHHS pilot programs that improve the use of the limited beds in state psychiatric hospitals, ensuring individuals receive care in the most appropriate setting.”

Governor Stein made the following statement on his veto of House Bill 402: Limit Rules with Substantial Financial Cost:

“This bill would make it harder for the state to keep people’s drinking water clean from PFAS and other dangerous chemicals, their air free from toxic pollutants, and their health care facilities providing high quality care. It would impose red tape, including an unworkable unanimity requirement, that would hamstring the decision-making of agencies, boards, and commissions, making them less effective at protecting people’s health, safety, and welfare.”

Governor Stein also signed House Bill 568: 2025 Omnibus Labor Amendments. 

PROGRESS RESTORING LAKE LURE

 

FEMA approved and has funded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to restore Lake Lure through surface level and now subsurface level debris and silt/sedimentation removal.  They have been on the ground in Lake Lure doi8ng this work since about three weeks after the hurricane.  USACE in coordination with AshBritt Environmental and many local contractors continue efforts to remove debris, silt, and sedimentation from Lake Lure.   This is the latest update on their progress as of 6/29/25.

• 524,580 tons of silt/sediment removal (+78,580 Tons).

• 48,617 cubic yards of debris from the waterway (+987 CY).

This is a new record for the largest amount of silt and sedimentation removed in one week so far....78,580 tons! That's approximately enough to fill 24 Olympic-size pools. 

Here is some additional information to help you visualize the process and the progress:

• 140 trucks are working on any given day.

• The average truck holds 25 tons of silt.

• About 330 truckloads are removed on average each day.

Crews are working 7 days a week, 12 hours a day to complete the mission which we anticipate will continue throughout the summer months, potentially into the fall. This is a dynamic process and we do not have a definitive timeline for completion at this time.

Where does the silt go?  The silt is taken to the landfill in Enoree SC. 

Technology and Debris Removal: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is employing cutting-edge technology to revolutionize debris cleanup in western, North Carolina. Drones equipped with cameras and LiDAR sensors are helping crews locate debris, verify loads, and speed up debris removal, all while maintaining the safety of recovery crews. Watch the brief video here.

3D MAP: USACE surveyed Lake Lure and created a 3D map of 720 acres of the lake bottom that is being used to identify debris that is underwater, like docks or boats. You may review a copy of the USACE Hydrographic Survey here.  Note the key at the bottom of the illustration shows the depth of the subsurface. 

Water Quality Tests:  

• The latest water sample results are from May 26, 2025. 
• For the 1st time since the hurricane, Lake Lure is now within normal readings for every parameter the Town tests for. That is something to truly celebrate!
• You may review the updated spreadsheet which illustrates all the water sample data received by the Town of Lake Lure. For questions, please contact Communications@townoflakelure.com.

IN THE NEWS

• NC lawmakers pass $500 million for Helene relief: Galen Bacharier NC Newsline, Jun 29, 2025 - A chainsaw operator cuts down debris collected from the bottom of Lake Lure in Rutherford County, North Carolina, on April 14 to make it easier to load into dump trucks for disposal. The submerged debris is made up of vegetative and man-made debris washed into Lake Lure when Hurricane Helene impacted the area. Photo courtesy Michael Davis | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

  RALEIGH — North Carolina lawmakers are sending half a billion dollars to the western mountains for hurricane relief, reaching a long-sought compromise between the House and Senate just hours before they left Raleigh for weeks.

  Both chambers unanimously approved House Bill 1012 on June 26. Gov. Josh Stein is expected to swiftly sign it into law. The final agreement puts $700 million total into the state’s Helene relief fund. And it appropriates $500 million of that money, leaving the other $200 million for future relief.

  “It addresses immediate needs,” said Rep. Karl Gillespie (R- Cherokee). “It does not address all needs. There will be more to work on later.”

  Private road and bridge repairs, which are ongoing, will receive $75 million as part of the bill. Another $70 million will serve to match federal funding for ongoing projects. State Treasurer Brad Briner’s office will get $51.5 million to send out interest-free loans to local governments. And a separate $70 million grant program will help fund infrastructure in municipalities.

  Farmers will also continue to see aid. A $25 million program will help reimburse damaged or lost farm infrastructure. A host of natural resource and environmental programs will receive money: $15 million for wildfire prevention, $15 million for streamflows, $10 million for dam repairs and more.

  School districts will also be eligible for $8 million in grants included in the bill to repair infrastructure or buildings damaged by the storm.

  Absent from the final agreement is a grant program for small businesses. The longtime request from business owners and western lawmakers was part of the House’s proposal, but struck by the Senate.

  “We have not done small business grants for the east,” Senate leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) told reporters. “We just didn’t feel like it was something that we needed to do at this point.”

  Democrats from Asheville and the surrounding county said the lack of grants would hurt the “economic engine” of the area.

  “When we talk about ‘there’s more to come’ … for most of the small businesses impacted by the storm, it will come too late,” said Rep. Brian Turner (D-Buncombe). “And the ripple effects will be felt all across the region.”

  Other large bundles of money will be directed toward relief under the bill. Almost $300 million for the Department of Transportation will be used for Helene repairs. And the package green-lights the use of $685 million in federal dollars for water and sewer infrastructure.

  The House passed their version of the bill in May, sending a $464 million package to the Senate. It went untouched there for a month, until senators made major changes to the bill and pushed it through. Read more here. 

 

• 7 Western NC towns among 9 most scenic in the state: See why, World Atlas analysis, Iris Seaton, Asheville Citizen Times

  ...What to do in Lake Lure, NC: Asheville Citizens Times - 

  "Lake Lure is a place where water and mountains meet in a gentle embrace," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge foothills, the lake itself gleams like a mirror beneath the North Carolina sun."

  Much like recent recognition on a USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice list, WorldAtlas includes Lake Lure on the list despite the severe damage the area suffered during Tropical Storm Helene. Acknowledging that the lake and well-known Flowering Bridge remain closed, writers appreciate the following in Lake Lure:

  The surviving gardens near the Flowering Bridge in the area's west and east ends.

  Chimney Rock State Park, with its panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and the lake.  Read more here.

• North Carolina’s Chimney Rock State Park reopens after long Hurricane Helene closure: ByGail Marsh, June 30, 2025 

  On Friday, June 27, Chimney Rock State Park reopened. It had been exactly nine months since Hurricane Helene’s devastating floodwaters washed away the park’s historic entrance bridge and shuttered one of Western North Carolina’s most beloved attractions.

  The park’s comeback represents a chance for visitors to reconnect with nature’s grandeur. It’s also an opportunity to support a community on the road to recovery.

  Rock-solid improvements

  Since September 2024, an extraordinary coalition, including the N.C. Department of Transportation and local contractors, has worked nonstop to rebuild access and amenities in the park. A brand‑new temporary bridge now spans the Rocky Broad River. It replaces the span that Helene swept away.

  Crews have also repaved critical sections of the park’s drive. These infrastructure upgrades will ease travel for larger vehicles, like RVs. The extensive work underscores Chimney Rock State Park’s commitment to offering safe, well‑maintained facilities.

  Local economy boost

  Chimney Rock State Park draws an estimated 350,000 to 400,000 visitors annually. The park fuels the hospitality, retail, and outdoor‑recreation businesses in nearby Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village.

  The reopening of Chimney Rock State Park is a welcome “economic engine” for merchants still rebuilding storefronts and restocking inventories. Hurricane Helene’s floodwaters damaged nearly a third of Chimney Rock Village’s shops and eateries last fall. Read more here. 

• The government cuts key data used in hurricane forecasting, and experts sound an alarm: Fox 44 - Weather experts are warning that hurricane forecasts will be severely hampered by the upcoming cutoff of key data from U.S. Department of Defense satellites...Read more here.

• Land near Lake Lure protected for future trails by Conserving Carolina: Hendersonville Times News - LAKE LURE — Conserving Carolina has protected 49 acres on the east side of Lake Lure that will be an anchor for future trails. Read more here.

• Long-Lost Treasures Emerge From Lake During Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts in North Carolina: Smithsonian Magazine - Officials are draining the water from Lake Lure to remove sediment and debris, revealing historic objects embedded in the dry lakebed

  As Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue across the southeastern United States, crews in western North Carolina are making some unexpected discoveries.

  A 1920s Model T-style truck and a 32-foot wooden boat have emerged during a post-storm cleanup project at Lake Lure, an 800-acre, man-made reservoir on the Broad River roughly 45 miles from Asheville.

  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is removing tons of sediment and debris from Lake Lure, which got washed downstream when the powerful storm swept through last September. The project aims to “help restore Lake Lure’s natural beauty and ensure the waterway is safe and accessible again,” according to an announcement from the town of Lake Lure.

  As part of this work, officials have drained much of the water out of the reservoir, which was created in the mid-1920s. Now, the dry lakebed is revealing unexpected artifacts that have been hidden for decades. Read more here.

MEETING THE MARK

Town Council Storm Recovery Meeting: Town Council met with Town leaders to discuss and move forward the ongoing work of the storm recovery.  Updates are included throughout this report.

Town Council Special Work Session and Action Meeting: Lake Lure Town Council held a special Work Session and Action meeting on 6/25/25.  You may review a summary of the meeting here.

Media: Mayor Pritchett and various Town Officials and stakeholders participated in interviews with CBS 60 minutes for a story they are working on related to disaster recovery. 

Sewer System Meeting: Town Officials met with Labella Associates to discuss the ongoing effort to replace the sewer system. 

Comprehensive Planning Meeting: Town Officials met with representatives from the Foothills Regional Commission to plan for the kick-off to the Comprehensive Planning Process.

Media: Mayor Pritchett participated in an interview with Spectrum News, the Asheville Citizens-Times, and Fox News related to the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park.

West End Sewer System: Town Officials met to discuss the ongoing work that is taking place to restore the West End Sewer System, (West of Memorial Highway). Unfortunately, the project is now delayed by 2 weeks.  The projected date of completion is 7/23/25.  

ICF Meeting: Meeting with ICF, our FEMA/Insurance consultant for Lake Lure Project Formulation. They are tracking the status of Lake Lure's 34 Project Worksheets and the 67 Damage Inventory Line Items with FEMA. 

Lake Structures Appeals Board Meeting: The Board met for their monthly meeting.

Board of Appeals Meeting: The Board met for their monthly meeting.

 

LAKE USE IN 2025

The Town of Lake Lure and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) contractors continue operations to work to restore the lake from the impacts sustained from Tropical Storm Helene. Lake Lure is a Federal job site and the lake is currently not safe for public access. While this has been announced and publicized since Helene, the Town still receives reports of illegal lake access. Under the local state of emergency, last week Lake Lure Town Council passed a proclamation suspending lake access until further notice.  Those who violate this suspension shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor in accordance with G.S. 14-288.20A.

• This proclamation does not apply to approved contractors, USACE, Town of Lake Lure staff, or government officials.
• Further, notwithstanding, property owners may remove debris and sedimentation from underneath their lake structures until July 15th.
• This must only include lake debris deposited as a result of Tropical Storm Helene.
• Land-based debris cannot be brought into the lakebed.
• A plan must be submitted and approved for any sediment removal.
• For this purpose, lake structures can be accessed through land, or property owners may use a Town approved contractor to access a structure through the lake.
• Debris and sedimentation can be placed at least one foot away from the structure either beside or in front of the footprint where it is easily reachable by contractors.

Washburn Marina Slips: All marina slips are being reserved for existing slip renters.  Note that most of the marina docks have been temporarily placed on Town property near the school.  Some docks fare remaining near the marina for use in the coming weeks.     

Boat Permits: Boat permits will not become available until the Lake reopens, hopefully in 2026.

Is Your Non-Motorized Boat Missing? Reuniting recovered non-motorized boats and stand-up paddleboards with their owners has been a priority for the Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department. In an effort to arrange for the retrieval of discovered boats, traceable boat owners have been contacted.

July 1, 2025, is the last day to arrange for a pick-up of a recovered SUP or non-motorized watercraft. Pickups are by appointment only. If you haven't already, please call 828-625-9983 x 505 or send an email to prladmin@townoflakelure.com with a description of your missing watercraft along with any photos and/or the most recent permit numbers. Let us know if you have questions.

ROADWAYS

 

• Road Repairs: Town of Lake Lure Public Works Crews are out and about repairing roadways most weeks.  These photos show the work that is being done on Angler's Way to repair a downward road slide. 

Intermittent Delays - Buffalo Shoals Road - 7/2/25: Buffalo Shoals Road will have one lane blocked, about .6 mile south of the Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure entrance.  This is approximately halfway between the main entrance for Rumbling Bald and Havnaers Point Circle. The temporary blockage will begin at approximately 10:00 am and is expected to last for about 2 hours. One lane will remain open. Please anticipate delays.  

Roadwork Ahead - Boys Camp Road - July 7-11, 2025: Roadwork is planned on Boys Camp Road during the week of 7/7/25 – 7/11/25. Public Works crews will be strengthening the roadway at the guardrails, just below "The Ridge" subdivision. Please anticipate intermittent delays throughout the day.

Roadways: The Town of Lake Lure is grateful for the support of the community as so many trucks are up and down the roadways hauling off silt and debris.  This phase of the recovery remains challenging, but the restoration that is being done is nothing short of amazing.  Once the debris is finally cleared, the roadways will be assessed and the Town will work to restore roadways that have been impacted by the traffic from heavy trucks. Public Works crews are working on Town roads and mudslides every week.

Highway 64/74A Between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village: As of 6/30/25, Highway 64/74A between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village is closed as a result of the impacts of Hurricane Helene.  The road is only open to locals which includes residents, property and business owners, and approved construction workers. The checkpoint has been removed but the roadway remains closed to the public at large. For questions please contact Chimney Rock Village.  Please do not use this road if you do not have to as contractors have to stop their work to allow for passage when cars go by slowing the recovery process. 

NC DOT updates on Highway 64: A temporary road is expected to be open between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville was just extended to June 30, 2027 (YES 2027). For more information Visit NC DOT’s Drive NC link: https://drivenc.gov/?type=incident&id=715074

Update from Gerton Fire and Rescue: "The road closures for Gerton Highway 74 will continue for the next several weeks 9-4. Please plan appropriately as you travel. We would like to also impress that these roads are for local traffic only. We have had a surge in tourists over the last few weeks. Please stay out of the gorge if you do not live there and let them work."

Boys Camp Road Permanent Bridge: The Bridge has been designed and the Town has received bids to construct the permanent bridge. The Town has submitted this project for funding through FEMA.  Update 6/23/25: The Town just received funding for the damage on the Boys Camp Road Bridge and next steps will be presented to Town Council for consideration.

Proctor Road: These road repairs began May 12, 2025.  The estimated completion time for the project is 5-6 weeks.  The project is going well and is on schedule. The normal working hours for the project is from 7 AM till 5 PM Monday through Friday.  Proctor Road will be open and passable before 7:30AM, between 12:00-12:30, and after 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays. If there is an emergency situation, all equipment will be moved immediately for safe egress/ingress.

Update 6/23/25: There is a slight delay, awaiting confirmation of work to be completed by Duke Energy. A new completion date will be determined once Duke completes their portion of the road.

LAND BASED DEBRIS

Personal Property Debris Removal (PPDR): DEADLINE EXTENDED TO 6/30/25

Rutherford County: Rutherford County is accepting applications for a Private Property Debris Removal program (PPDR) through FEMA that can assist residents with removal of potentially eligible storm-generated debris from private property, private roads and/or driveways and services may be available for the demolition of hazardous structures. Eligible debris must be the direct result of Hurricane Helene and must be located within Rutherford County. To be considered eligible the removal of the debris must be in the public interest to eliminate immediate threats to life, public health, or safety, and to eliminate immediate threats of significant damage to improved public or private property.

Types of eligible storm-generated debris includes vegetative debris, construction and demolition debris, white goods such as household appliances, and household hazardous waste.

Qualifying property owners may contact DebrisTech personnel by calling 828-319-2880 or by sending an email to ppdr@debristech.com.

Applicants must provide the following required documents. Most Recent Tax Bill/Record, a valid Driver’s License or State Issued I.D., a utility bill from the time of event, which can be your power, water or gas bill, your homeowner’s insurance policy, and a copy of your house deed, which is only required if you are signing up for demolition of a structure.

Questions/Assistance: Please call 501-604-6453 if you need additional information or if you have questions.

Update on the Private and Commercial Business Property Debris Removal Process for applicants in zip code 28746: The Release of Entry (ROE) collection phase is the beginning phase of the process to have debris removed from private properties. There are other steps outside of the ROE collection process, to include site assessment, vetting by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Realty, and then assignment to a contractor. Program coordinators are at the phase of awarding a contract. hang tight!  This team is overseeing the PPDR program for all of Western NC.   It is their goal to begin debris removal for applicants in zip code 28746 within the next 4 to 6 weeks.  

PPDR in Action: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its contractors are hard at work in western North Carolina, clearing debris left in the wake of Hurricane Helene. USACE, tasked by FEMA, is on the ground supporting Personal Property Debris Removal, clearing fallen trees from private property. Each load removed means safer homes, clearer access, and one more step toward recovery.

Watch the process in action in this video. Each cleared site is a step closer to recovery.

Rutherford County Debris Removal/Drop Off//Free Mulch: Rutherford County has also been removing debris from the roadways. Rutherford County is giving away free double-ground mulch-like product. The mulch is available at the Rutherford County Landfill, 656 Laurel Hill Drive, Rutherfordton, NC. Hours for pickup are Monday-Friday 10:00 am-2:00 pm. Hours for drop off: Saturday 8 AM–4 PM, Sunday-Closed, Monday-Friday 8 AM–4:30 PM.    

Polk County Transfer Station/Landfill:  Address: 322 Landfill Rd, Mill Spring, NC 28756, Phone: (828) 894-3737, Hours: Saturday8 AM–4 PM, Sunday-Closed, Monday-Friday 8 AM–4:30 PM. 

GUIDANCE ON DEBRIS UNDER LAKE STRUCTURES

The Town continues to partner with FEMA and the US Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) to restore the lake, we have had many lakeside property owners reach out to inquire how they can assist. One assistance opportunity is to remove debris and sedimentation that is underneath their lake structures. Contractors will be continuing to clean the lake shore, but they will not be working underneath lake structures.

Here is some key information if you would like to participate in this process:

This must only include lake debris deposited as a result of Tropical Storm Helene. Land-based debris cannot be brought into the lakebed.

Lake structures can be accessed through land or property owners may use an approved contractor to access a structure through the lake.

Debris and sedimentation can be placed at least one foot away from the structure, either beside or in front of the footprint where it is easily reachable by contractors.

This is authorized until July 15th.  

Note: A plan must be submitted and approved for any sediment removal. For additional information regarding approvals for sediment removal, please contact Kimberly Martin at (828) 625-9983 ext. 135 or kmartin@townoflakelure.com.

CONTRACTOR INFORMATION

 

Only approved contractors may go on the lake at this time but sea wall restoration is now possible with the proper permitting.  Building contractors should submit a scope of work regarding lake use activities (with permits) to Community Development.

If work is to be done from a boat, a 2025 Service permit sticker will also be required. Please contact the Parks, Recreation, and Lake Office to purchase the service permit sticker.  You may email kmartin@townoflakelure.com with any questions.

Click here for additional information on contractors.

 

DAMAGED LAKE STRUCTURES

 

The Community Development Department has created a map showing most of the seriously damaged lake structures, approximately 111 structures. There are many more that have less serious damage or where damage has not been fully realized.

Update 5/30/25: Two additional properties were added to the condemnation list. These are properties that the owners agree to the demo of the boat house.

If you have damages, be aware that you will need to contact the Community Development Department about permitting for repairs or replacement. 

Permits are being issued and work is being done on lake structures now but does have to be authorized. 

For property owners who signed up for the no-cost demolitions by the Army Corp, they are working on their plan now and we will notify you as we have more specific timing information. 

We have confirmed that, if you are signed up for the condemnation/removal program, they will be contacting you individually for a “right of entry” agreement prior to beginning the work. 

Please contact Community Development Staff for more information about the Army Corp program, as well as your permitting, at kmartin@townoflakelure.com or 828-625-9983, x 135.

 

DAM UPDATES

 

The reservoir drain project at the dam will allow the Town to lower the lake to 30 feet as planned for the ongoing lake restoration work.  

Schnabel Engineering is overseeing a geotechnical subsurface investigation to support the design of the replacement dam at Lake Lure.  

They have begun the geotechnical drilling and topographic surveying portions of our field investigations.

Borings have been drilled on the left and right abutments of the existing dam. Contractors have set control points, captured aerial imagery and LiDAR data, and performed other preliminary surveying efforts.

We hope to begin design work for the replacement dam in the fall of 2025. We are hoping to receive confirmation on a FEMA High Hazard Dam Grant to support the cost of this project.  

SEWER SYSTEM UPDATES

West-end Sewer System: The work on the West End Sewer System Project began on 3/10/25 and Public Services leaders advise that the project is going very well.  The total project is taking up to 4 months.  There was a slight delay last week and the new expected completion date is 7/23/25, depending on the time it takes to drill through rock, etc. Updates will be posted here.   

Sewer System Overall: Public Services continues to work to maintain the larger sewer system.  Planning and design work will be proceeding in Sunset Cove, Tryon Bay, Snug Harbor, and Grey Logs Cove in anticipation of future funding.  The Town has applied for FEMA funding to support restoration of the system.  We are awaiting a decision regarding this request and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.  The Town hopes to continue work on the sewer system as the Lake is drawn down this summer.  

Lift Station: The lift station repairs below the dam has gone well and everything is mechanically connected. Update 6/23/25: The system is operational and online

Waste Water Treatment Plant: The Waste Water Treatment Plant is operational but we have submitted a request to FEMA for a replacement treatment system. We are awaiting a decision regarding this request and hope to relocate the system out of the flood zone.

 

CELL TOWER

The cell tower site shifted 100 feet back to accommodate the change in the topography due to the storm. It will still be 125 feet from property lines and will be fenced in. The tower will be 195 feet tall and will be a sleek design. Construction for the tower is expected to begin this summer 2025.  

Update June 2025: The Cell Tower is on track for a July construction start!  Due to the Helene damage delay, the tower applicants had to go back through the state and federal permitting process again.  The NC State Historical Preservation Office provided a quick approval and we are all looking forward to improved cell signals and 5G service! The tower applicants are still on track and confident of breaking ground in late July.  They’re doing some preliminary sample drilling on the site this week!

 

COUNSELING/MENTAL HEALTH

 

Crisis Counseling, Mental Health Resources Available for Helene Survivors: The NC Department of Health and Human Services’ Hope4NC Crisis Counseling Program provides immediate support and crisis counseling services for North Carolinians following Helene. Survivors experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, can call the Hope4NC Helpline 24/7 at 1-855-587-3463. Services are provided at no cost and are available to anyone residing within the declared 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, regardless of their eligibility for FEMA financial assistance.  Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline is available anytime to provide support. Survivors and responders feeling overwhelmed can call or text 1-800-985-5990 to receive free, confidential support in any language.

 

 

BEYOND FEMA – SUPPORT FOR HURRICANE HELENE SURVIVORS

 

Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach - Local Food Pantry: (828) 625-4683 Monday, Thursday, Friday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.  https://hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org/

Legal Aid NC Helpline: If you wish to contact Legal Aid NC for disaster-related legal issues, call our Helpline: Toll-Free: 1 (866) 219-LANC (5262) 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Legal Aid of North Carolina is not your typical law firm—they are the nonprofit law firm for the state. They are dedicated to delivering justice and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to legal help and support when it matters most. https://legalaidnc.org/what-we-do/

NC Department of Insurance (DOI) is coordinating with law enforcement agencies, emergency management, fire departments, rescue squads, charities, churches and civic groups to do everything we can at the state and local level to assist the victims. DOI Consumer Assistance will be on the ground to help with insurance claims and other needs. The following web page is updated with the latest information on the DOI Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. https://www.ncdoi.gov/hurricane-helene-response-and-recovery

RHI Legacy Foundation: RHI Legacy is committed to impacting health and wellness in Rutherford County by making grants to support organizations and initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s grant focus areas: Chronic disease, Healthy Eating, Active Living. www.rhilegacyfoundation.com

United Way: https://www.unitedwaync.org/

United Way of Rutherford County: www.unitedwayofrutherford.org

The Community Foundation for Western NC (CFWNC) Hurricane Helene Relief and Recovery Effort: (Regional Funders, Donors and Others Coordinating for Hurricane Relief in Western North Carolina). CFWNC activated its Emergency and Disaster Response Fund to accept and disburse funds supporting a regional response and relief efforts in 18 counties of Western North Carolina including the Qualla Boundary on September 29. Funds ensure that nonprofits have the resources they needed for the critical early response and continuing recovery. Administrative fees are waived so that every dollar goes directly to assistance.  *To donate by check: make your check payable to The Community Foundation and mail it to 4 Vanderbilt Park Drive, Ste. 300, Asheville, NC 28803; please include EDRF in the memo line. $17,498,653 in 394 Grants Awarded as of 1/1/25. To apply for a grant visit:  https://cfwnc.org/initiatives/hurricane-helene-relief-and-recovery

North Carolina Community Foundation: Bringing together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about. Mission: to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities. The North Carolina Community Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund aims to provide assistance in the months and years ahead. “Our Disaster Relief Fund is going to be providing help with long-term recovery and unmet needs. It will complement the work already underway in western North Carolina with grants going out to organizations in early 2025,” said NCCF President and CEO Jennifer Tolle Whiteside.  More than $10 million has been raised so far for the Disaster Relief Fund, including a $7.5 million gift from Lilly Endowment Inc. Visit the following link to apply for a grant: 

https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=nccommunityfoundation

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUSINESSES

 

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina Grants Directory: https://cfwnc.org/grantseekers/grants-directory 

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1978 to build a permanent pool of charitable capital for the 18 counties of Western North Carolina including the Qualla Boundary. We work with individuals, families and corporations to create and manage charitable funds and make grants to nonprofits or public agencies in our region. 

In partnership with fundholders, the Foundation has awarded more than $387 million in scholarships to students and grants to nonprofit organizations and public institutions across our 18-county region and beyond. We manage $462 million (March 2025) in assets with a long-term investment strategy that permanently protects and grows these funds.

A COMMITMENT TO THE REGION

Mission: The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina inspires philanthropy and mobilizes resources to enrich lives and communities throughout the region.

Vision: Our vision is a vibrant and equitable Western North Carolina where all people can find opportunity and enjoy the region's many resources.

Western NC Strong Recovery Loans: https://www.mountainbizworks.org/get-funding/

Where traditional banks see risk, we see massive opportunities. For over 30 years, Mountain BizWorks has been saying yes to entrepreneurs, whose financing needs have often been overlooked and underfunded. Supporting Western North Carolina’s small businesses get the capital they need to start, grow, and thrive is our passion.  What they provide: Mountain BizWorks believes in the power of local entrepreneurs to create a vibrant local economy. While traditional banks often see start-up and early-stage businesses as too risky, we see them as Western North Carolina’s future.  Mountain BizWorks specializes in providing financing to help Western North Carolina small businesses launch and expand, by offering non-traditional loans from $1,000 to $500,000. Because all loan decisions are made locally, we are able to support your capital needs and requests with expediency.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT/APPLICATIONS

 

The following chart illustrates the financial support the Town of Lake Lure is currently seeking, in addition to Federal and State Funding requests that have been made on behalf of the Town through our political representatives (disaster management planning experts) and Hager Strategic Solutions (lobbyist).  They are assisting the Town with post-disaster federal funding applications and requests to expedite our recovery process.

There are now 34 projects that have been submitted to FEMA for consideration of funding and the Town is awaiting their review and feedback.

 

Organization	Funding Request	Status
State of NC-DEQ-Water (Loan with potential forgiveness)	$3,000,000	Application under review
FEMA-Revenue Replacement (Loan with potential forgiveness)	Up to $5,000,000	Financial data under review; additional data being provided
FEMA reimbursements	Up to $7,500,000	5/2/25 Update: 5 projects now obligated for a total of $3,224,564.61. ·$862,186.69 Received 4/25 for a Category A (Debris Removal) 5/18/25 Update: $754,185.81 (anticipated 5/25) for a Category B (Emergency Protective Measures) 5/23/25 Update: Received a check for $65,390.00 for Category A Town Wide Vegetative Debris Removal from ROW and Public Property. A new project was obligated for $118,323.67 for Category B Temporary Hydroelectric Plant Emergency Repairs. 6/23/25 Update: Received a check for the Boys Camp Road Bridge Damage: $503,580 (Category C);
DEQ-ARPA Reimbursement (non-storm related)	Up to $3,000,00	Submission under review
Private Donations	Up to $90,000	Deposited; being held for future disbursement under discretion of Council
Other Revenues and Payments from Insurance proceeds and claims	Up to $5,000,000	50% has been approved for release 1/7/25 Update: 50% received. 1/31/25 Update: $1.3 million insurance payment for damage to Town Hall.
NC Treasurer Cash Flow Loan	$3,423,122.89	3/21/25 Update: Received    6/23/25: The Town was offered an additional $2.8 million in cash flow funds from the State Treasurer.  A recommendation regarding this offer will be made to Town Council for consideration. 6/25/25: Town Council approved the loan.

 

MONETARY DONATIONS

 

Our community, along with many of our neighbors, has been devastated by the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The Town of Lake Lure, NC is deeply grateful for the support our community has received.  We have had numerous requests to establish a mechanism for financial donations. Please click on the following link to donate to the Town of Lake Lure Storm Recovery Fund.  

https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/WXB6HYYE8Y5PJ

Additional options for monetary donations include the following: 

Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration: https://www.ectransfiguration.org/online-giving   

• Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach: https://hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org/one-time-donation/
• RHI Legacy Foundation will match any donation up to $50,000 at www.rhilegacyfoundation.com
• United Way of Rutherford County at www.unitedwayofrutherford.org
• Hurricane Helene – Força Foundation: https://forcafoundation.com/hurricane-helene/
• Restore Lake Lure Fundraising Campaign: www.RestoreLakeLure.com "The Restore Lake Lure campaign seeks to bridge the gap between governmental support and personal sacrifice."
• The Foundation For Lake Lure/Chimney Rock Area Businesses: https://foundation4lakelurechimneyrock.com/home

 

STORM RECOVERY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

 

Swift evacuation by first responders saving countless lives 9/27/24.

Countless rescues first responders during and following Hurricane Helene.

Coordination with the Rutherford County Emergency Management during and throughout the storm.

Dam assessment and stabilization immediately following the storm event 9/27/24-9/29/24.

Communication with the Rutherford County EOC and FEMA for recovery immediately following the storm.

Coordination with volunteer groups to provide hot meals, shower services, restrooms, and handwashing stations in strategic locations by 10/1/24. Christian Aid Ministries served 8,080 hot meals and assisted 43 homeowners with cleanup of their homes and property.  There were 164 volunteers and they spent 2,457 hours assisting our community!

Creation of donation stations to disseminate supplies throughout town by 10/1/24. 

Cleared Highways and Town roads within days of the storm.

Restoration of water service throughout Town with water quality testing allowing Boil Advisory lifted 10/14/24 and 10/16/24 respectively.

Rapid repair of power services throughout Town by Duke Power and REMC.  

Establishment of temporary communications systems through Starlink (10 systems) and Cell on Wheels with AT&T and Verizon 10/16/24.

Replacement of fiber to re-establish internet and cell service to the area 10/18/24. 

Repair to the left abutment of the Dam by 10/27/24 with 2,494.64 tons of material securing the area.

Army Corps of Engineers contract signed with AshBritt to oversee lake debris and silt/sedimentation removal during a 160 day period of performance beginning 10/28/24.  Debris removal began 11/4/24.

Emergency repairs to the sewer system completed, allowing "no flush order" to be lifted for most on 10/28/24.

Reopening of the Dam Bridge on Buffalo Shoals Road on 10/31/24.

Dittmer Watts Nature Trails and a portion of the Green Space reopened on 11/19/24.

Pressure Reducing Valve Construction in Lake Lure Town Center successfully completed 11/22/24.

The Boys Camp Road Temporary Bridge was completed 11/26/24.

As of 1/23/24, Over 32,782 CY of debris have been removed from the right of way, 27669 tons of sediment and silt have been removed from Town and the parks, 24,558 cubic yards (CY) of debris have been removed from the Lake.

1/10/25: Burnt Ridge Landslide repair completed.

1/7/25: 50% of insurance payments received.

1/22/25: Contracted with lobbyist Hager Strategic Solutions (lobbyist). 

1/22/25: Proclamation to open Chimney Rock State Park as soon as possible to bring in tourism to the area and strengthen the economy.

The Town is committed to sharing details of the recovery process and as our comprehensive plans are developed, this information will continue to be shared broadly on the website and in Town Meetings.

1/31/25: Culvert repair on Hummingbird Cove completed.

1/31/25: $1.3 million insurance payment received for damage to Town Hall. 

2/11/25: Waste Water Treatment Plant is now operational.  Repaired 3 water leaks throughout the water system

2/14/25: Storm drain box culvert repaired at corner of Memorial Hwy and Charlotte Dr

2/19/25: Youngs Mountain Trail landslide repaired

2/21/25: Green Space drainage repairs completed, grass replanted, and dry creek beds put into place.

2/28/25: The Town of Lake Lure and all those in areas code 28746 are eligible to apply for a free option for debris removal program through the USACE.

3/7/25: Debris removed from Morse Park trails and grass replanted in that area.

3/14/25: FEMA approval of the mission assignment for Lake Surface Debris, silt, and sedimentation removal through FEMA and the US Army Corps of Engineers.

3/18/25: Community Forum held with FEMA, USACE at The Lakeside Terrace with approximately 200 attendees.

3/18/25: United Way presented Fire Chief Dustin Waycaster a check for $50,000 for a new heart monitor for Firefights/AMTs.

3/27/25: Reservoir Drain Valve Installation complete.

4/24/25: 371 +/- boats that have been removed from the lake.

4/25/25: Reopened the East entrance to Morse Park.

5/2/25: $862,186.69 Received 4/25 for a Category A (Debris Removal)

5/11/25: $754,185.81 Received for a Category B (Emergency Protective Measures)

6/12/25: New seawall completed at the Lake Lure Gazebo

6/13/25: New pavers replaced broken and missing pavers in the Morse Park walkway and in front of the Lake Lure Beach. 

6/17/25: The Lake Lure Beach was replenished with fresh sand.  

6/23/25:  The Town received a check for the Boys Camp Road Bridge Damage: $503,580 (Category C)

6/25/25: Cash flow loan 

ONGOING

Emergency repairs to the sewer system.

Constant removal hazardous debris from the lake and roadways.

Removal of condemned boat houses.

Town officials are working to develop a comprehensive plan for recovery of the Lake.   

 

QUESTIONS/SUGGESTIONS

 

You may review previous Storm Recovery Updates in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com

For questions or suggestions, please email Communications@townoflakelure.com