Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates and More 5/11/25

Please take a moment to review the Lake Lure Storm Recovery and Town Updates for Sunday, 5/11/25.    

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is using two distinct methods to remove Hurricane Helene debris from waterways in Western North Carolina—tailored to the unique challenges of each environment.

• Lake Lure: With high turbidity reducing visibility, sonar data from before the storm is compared to sonar and LiDAR scans taken after the storm to pinpoint where debris and sediment are hidden beneath the water’s surface. This advanced mapping guides the barges in determining where to remove debris.

• Smaller Waterways: In shallower rivers and creeks across Western North Carolina, barges operate differently. Here, debris locations are identified by local county officials, who mark specific locations where cleanup is needed. The barge crews then remove targeted debris based on these reports.

Whether relying on high-tech scans or local knowledge, each approach ensures the most efficient and effective cleanup possible. 

     

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractors are using construction barges to remove Hurricane Helene debris—operating only in areas deep enough to support them to minimize environmental impact.

To further protect local ecosystems, the barges utilize biodegradable fuel, hydraulic fluid, and oil—a proactive safeguard in the unlikely event of a spill. These materials naturally degrade in under 60 days, ensuring minimal disruption to the water and surrounding wildlife.

 

 DEBRIS REMOVAL UPDATES

 

Debris Removal Updates: The USACE, in coordination with AshBritt Environmental and local contractors, continue efforts to remove debris.  This is the latest data as of 5/10/25: 

• 156,797 tons of silt/sediment removal (+35,347 Tons).

• 38,645 cubic yards of debris from the water-way (+2,855 CY).

• 43,567 cubic yards of debris from the right of way (no change at this time)

On 4/16/25, the USACE estimated that one million cubic yards of debris still need to be removed from the Lake before the project is completed – that’s about 300 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Crews are working 7 days a week from 6AM to 6PM to complete the mission.

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. This debris will be removed in the next phase of work. 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.

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 on a first come, first served basis while supplies last beginning January 27, 2025. 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.    

Check out this important information on debris removal from roadways and private property in Rutherford County! 

 

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.  

Lakeside Debris: Please do not place debris on docks as it will be there for a while until we are able to bring the Lake back up to retrieve it. If debris is in the lake bed, crews will pick this up at some point during the debris removal process. Private property owners may clean shoreline. 

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure: silt/sedimentation removal has reached Rumbling Bald's side of the lake! This is great progress toward the restoration of Lake Lure, and they appreciate cooperation and patience in staying out of blocked-off areas as teams continue their work.

LAKE STATUS

 

Lake Levels: The current Lake Level is about 980.5 Mean Sea Level (MSL) as of 5/11/25. 

The Lake is at this lower level for the ongoing work with the US Army Corps of Engineers and AshBritt Environmental for subsurface debris, silt, and sedimentation. 

Updates will be posted here when further decisions are made regarding the Lake Level

Water Quality Tests: The water was tested this week and results will be posted as soon as the results are received.  The latest water quality tests from 3/24/25 are posted at the following link along with the history of the results. https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/lake-lure-water-sample-rep... Town officials are happy to report the turbidity readings continue to decrease, with the highest readings coming in at only 23 NTU. We are very close to being within normal turbidity ranges. All of the other parameters are within normal range.  Normal turbidity range is 0 to 10 NTU, but up to 25 NTU is acceptable. Turbidity is the measurement of water clarity (i.e., transparency).  For questions, please contact Communications@townoflakelure.com.

Lake Use in 2025: The Town is working with the USACEs to restore the Lake.  The contract for subsurface debris removal is expected to continue through the summer season.  Initially the Lake will be lowered to support these efforts and will likely go lower, depending on the requirements from USCAE. The Lake may remain lowered beyond the summer for ongoing work on the subaqueous sewer system.  Out of an abundance of caution, motorized and non-motorized vessels, as well as swimming, are not permitted this season.  

Washburn Marina Slips: All marina slips are being reserved for existing slip renters.  Note that the 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

Is Your Non-Motorized Boat Missing? The Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department is working to get recovered non-motorized boats and stand up paddleboards reunited with their owners.  If you lost your non-motorized boat, please call 828-625-9983 x 505 or submit a description of the vessel with pictures, and/or the last permit numbers to prladmin@townoflakelure.com. 

Boats removed and recovered: 371 (+/-) boats have been hauled off of the lake following Hurricane Helene.

Here’s an update on non-motorized (NM) boats:

• NM Awaiting Pick up By Owners: +/-30
• NM Reunited with Owners: 74
• NM Being Searched For: 35

ROADWAYS

• 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 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 May 2025, 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 residents, property and business owners, and approved construction workers. A checkpoint is in place at The Hickory Nut store just beyond The Geneva Motel.  Only those with approved passes are allowed through. For questions please contact Chimney Rock Village. 

• NC DOT updates on Highway 64: A temporary road is expected to be open between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville was extended to May 29, 2026 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.

• Tryon Bay: Tryon Bay has a culvert washout. Town staff are working on an estimate for repairs. Will reach out to see if FEMA can assist with this project. 

• 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.  We are awaiting their determination and funding for this project.

• Proctor Road: These road repairs are scheduled to begin in May 2025.  

  • The project is scheduled to begin on May 12, 2025
  • The estimated completion time for the project is 5-6 weeks.  
  • The normal working hours for the project will be 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 passage is necessary during the work schedule, the procedure for residents to pass through the job site during the 7:30 AM to 5 PM time period.
  • If there is an emergency situation, all equipment will be moved immediately for safe egress/ingress.

IN THE NEWS THIS PAST WEEK

1 - NC Breaks Tourism Spending Record, Continues to Be #5 Most Visited State: Tourism economy shows resiliency post Helene as travelers directly add $37 billion to the state economy 

The overall North Carolina tourism economy held strong against the headwinds of Hurricane Helene. Travelers spent more than $36.7 billion on trips to and within the state in 2024. The previous record of $35.6 billion was set in 2023. 

“Today’s news underscores what we all know: North Carolina is a fantastic place to visit,” said Governor Josh Stein. “As our mountain economies worked to recover from Helene, our Piedmont and coastal destinations remained popular and contributed to the growth of North Carolina’s tourism economy. We must continue to support tourism and small businesses in western North Carolina to help them come back stronger.”

Governor Stein’s announcement coincides with National Travel and Tourism Week (May 4-10), when travel and tourism professionals across the country unite to underscore the value of travel to the economy, businesses, communities, and personal well-being. The state’s Welcome Centers will host activities throughout the week.   Read more here.

2 - HUD approves NC’s $1.4B Helene Recovery Plan

RALEIGH — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has approved North Carolina's Hurricane Helene Action Plan for a $1.4 billion Community.. Read more here.

3 - Weather Experts Are Sharing Their Predictions For This Year's Hurricane Season—Here's What To Expect

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season could start as early as May 15 and bring above-average landfall threats. Researchers expect 19 storms to form in 2025...Read more here.

4 - Hurricane-ravaged city reaches crucial milestone on road to recovery — here's what's happening

Hurricane Helene caused devastating damage in several states, especially the Carolinas, in September 2024.

Read more here.

WHKY Radio Radio spot with Mayor Pritchett. 

MEETING THE MARK

• ICF Meeting: Town Council and Department Heads had an in-depth meeting with ICF, our FEMA/Insurance consultant for Lake Lure Project Formulation. They reviewed the status of Lake Lure's 31 Project Worksheets and the 67 Damage Inventory Line Items. 

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

• NC Department of Public Safety Zone 1 and Zone 5: PA & Debris Meeting.

• Schnabel Engineering: On-site work to support the field investigation for the Lake Lure Replacement Dam.

• LaBella Associates: Ongoing meeting with LaBella Associates to continue efforts to maintain the Lake Lure sewer system while planning for the future replacement system. 

• Town Council Special Meeting: The purpose of this meeting was to prepare for the upcoming budget year. You may download the Town of Lake Lure Budget Review Packet. 

• Media: Mayor Pritchett participated in a radio interview this week with WHKY, highlighting the fact that the Town of Lake Lure is open even as we continue to work through the storm recovery 0process.

• Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority: Mayor Pritchett participated in the monthly Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority meeting to highlight the need for increased marketing of the Lake Lure area to enhance tourism. 

• Rutherford County Town Manager's Meeting: Rutherford County Town Managers met for an informal meeting to stay in touch and network.

REPAIRS THIS WEEK

Public works crews worked diligently to report water leaks this week on Boys Camp Road and on Snug Harbor. 

   

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.

Approved commercial building contractors in the commercial model include:

• Freeman Stone Masonry
• K-Enterprise
• Lake Lure Adventure Company, Mark Helms
• Lake Lure Dock
• Master Dock
• Michael Markie (work from land only)

For additional information, please click here.

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. 
• 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 is complete. The drain will allow the Town to lower the lake beyond 12 feet, if needed. 

• The automation system for the Tainter Gates has been installed and inspected. They are functioning well.

• Fencing has been installed along the abutments for safety and looks very good.

• 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.

 

SEWER SYSTEM UPDATES

Repairing the Water Leaks: Public Works crews quickly repaired the water leaks on Boys Camp Road and Snug Harbor this week. 

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 could take up to 4 months, 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. We are running on portable pumps now. 

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.

WHAT’S OPEN IN THE TOWN OF LAKE LURE!

 

Lake Lure Welcomes Visitors Back As Recovery Continues: While visitors should be mindful of ongoing recovery efforts, several local businesses and recreation areas have reopened.  There are a number of attractions that are open in the area. Lake Lure hotels, lodges, bed & breakfasts, and our amazing restaurants are open for business!  Our local businesses greatly appreciate your patronage!  Please visit the area and encourage others to visit as well. 

Please visit the Local Restaurant Guide 

And here are some of the amenities that are currently open to the public.  

• Morse Park Walkway and the Lake Lure Gazebo

• Dittmer-Watts Nature Trails

• Lake Lure Green Space

• Pool Creek Picnic Park

• Youngs Mountain

• Rumbling Bald Golf Courses

• Chimney Rock State Park – Rumbling Bald Access

The Town has been approved for a grant for a replacement playground which will be temporarily placed in Pool Creek Picnic Park until a more permanent location can be identified. 

Ongoing work is also taking place at Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain and the Upper Boulder Trails by the National Guard, Carolina Climbers Coalition, Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, EcoForesters and AmeriCorps. We cannot thank them enough for their time and support!  Please stay tuned for updates as these additional parks and trails reopen.

CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK

Bridge Locations Selected in Chimney Rock: ​CHIMNEY ROCK – N.C. Department of Transportation officials have selected locations for two bridges in Chimney Rock that will serve temporary and long-term needs of residents and visitors.

Both plans were selected in coordination with local and state park officials and with input from the general public following a meeting and public comment period during which more than 100 comments were submitted. These two plans remove conflicts for Southside Drive residents from park and road construction traffic.

A temporary bridge from U.S. 64/74A to Chimney Rock Park Road will be installed just west of the old truss bridge that served Southside Drive and provide residents and visitors access to Chimney Rock State Park. NCDOT and its contractor, Wright Brothers Construction, have established the goal of opening the bridge by Memorial Day weekend if weather permits.

For permanent repairs, NCDOT officials selected a reconstruction plan that will combine the Chimney Rock Park Road and Southside Drive bridges into one. That bridge will start at a new roundabout at the former location of Old Rock Café, cross the river and connect with Chimney Rock Park Road, providing access to Southside Drive. Construction of the permanent bridge will commence during 2026 after nearby sections of U.S. 64/74A are reconstructed. 

The Town of Lake Lure is pleased that NC DOT has made a firm plan for reopening Chimney Rock State Park quickly.  The Town of Lake Lure is open and eager to welcome tourists back as we continue to recover from Hurricane Helene. All of our places to stay, restaurants, and several of our Parks and Trails are open in Lake Lure. Please visit www.townoflakelure for additional information.The Town of Lake Lure will continue to pursue opening the Lago Vista Road entrance to Chimney Rock State Park for emergency management purposes.  Completing the short gap between Lago Vista Road (behind the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa) and Chimney Rock State Park Road (within the park itself) is just a quarter of a mile.  Lake Lure Town Council Members and Town Officials will continue to advocate for this road to be completed to enhance emergency responses by the Lake Lure Fire and Rescue Team as most of Chimney Rock State Park is actually within the limits of the Town of Lake Lure.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• 5/26/25 at 9:00: Lake Lure Memorial Day Program (at the Lake Lure Veterans Memorial, across from the Lake Lure Beach) featuring Guest Speaker Colonel Brad Morgan, US Army Corps of Engineers Lead for Western North Carolina Storm Recovery Mission.
  

   

     

• 6/7/25 at 2:00: Lake Lure Music Festival - Concert for Hickory Nut Gorge (at the Lake Lure Classical Academy Raptor Center)

• 6/13/25 at 11:00: Lake Lure Flag Day Ceremony (in Morse Park)

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 May 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!

FEMA 

North Carolina Helene Recovery,  Key Messages: If you received rental assistance from FEMA and have a continuing need, you can apply for additional FEMA help. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 for information about applying for continued rental assistance.

Update

$431.9 million approved for more than 159,259 households, including money for rent, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused needs.

451.8 million in Public Assistance funding obligated to the state to support community recovery.

$182 million disbursed by the U.S. Small Business Administration in low-interest disaster loans.

13,317 households have stayed in FEMA-paid hotel rooms (Transitional Sheltering Assistance). As of April 21, 15 households remained.

210 households are currently living in FEMA temporary housing units.

5,298 households have received rental assistance.

7,325 families have received $21.1 million for repair or replacement of private-access roads and bridges.

6.7 million cubic yards of debris has been cleared from public rights of ways, 5 million by state contractors and 1.7 million by federal contractors.

The waterway debris mission has removed 3 million cubic yards of debris: approximately 2.8 million by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and 189,767 cubic yards by state contractors.

 $182.1 million paid in claims by the National Flood Insurance Program.

The Town of Lake Lure has submitted 31 projects for funding through FEMA.  FEMA is funding all of the debris removal process in and around the Lake. Some of the categories of projects the Town has submitted to FEMA include repairs to the Dam, Hydro-electric Plant, Waste Water Treatment Plant, Waste Water Collection System, Road and Bridge Repairs, Pathways and Sidewalks, Town Hall and the Police Station, the Beach, Parks and Trails, and Town Vehicles.  As projects are approved, they will be listed in the Financial Chart included later in this report.

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/nc-disaster-relief-fund-helene

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/helene/fund/apply/ 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 31 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 Funding for Emergency Repairs	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) ·$754,185.81 (anticipated 5/25) for a Category B (Emergency Protective Measures)
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

 

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)

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