Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates and More 5/18/25

Please take a moment to review the Lake Lure Storm Recovery and Town Updates for Sunday, 5/18/25.    

Drive through the US Army Corps of Engineer silt and sedimentation removal project in Lake Lure.  In the following video, you’re seeing the vast expanse of natural sediment covering half a million cubic yards of buried non-natural debris... This footage is taken at the back of Morse Park where contractors are collecting and staging silt and debris for removal from the West end of Lake Lure. Watch the video here.

This is what the workers are driving on—an overwhelming reminder of Hurricane Helene’s impact.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractors are working 12-hour days, 7 days a week to remove the debris and restore the waterways.

Nearly 100 dump trucks are hauling material daily to the Green Space Temporary Debris Storage site, ensuring safe and efficient removal.

Recovery is tough, but resilience is stronger.

US Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District, May 18, 2025

Western NC Debris Totals: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its contractors have removed 6 MILLION cubic yards of hurricane debris—primarily from waterways—in Western North Carolina. That’s enough to fill 800,000 school buses, which if lined up end to end would stretch over 5,300 miles, roughly the distance from New York to Tokyo!

This mission isn’t just about removal—it’s about restoring waterways, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring safe futures for communities.

A massive thank you to our incredible teams for making this possible!

US Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District, May 13, 2025

 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 5/17/25: 

• 186,337 tons of silt/sediment removal (+29540 Tons).

• 39,275 cubic yards of debris from the water-way (+630 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.    

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.

FEMA UPDATES

Town of Lake Lure Updates:

• FEMA is funding all of the Lake silt/debris removal process as well as the approved personal property debris removal projects.  

• 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. 

• FEMA has obligated 6 projects estimated at  $3.3 million. The Town has received $1.7 Million as of this meeting. We have several more projects that should be obligated soon.

• As projects are approved, they will be listed in the Financial Chart included later in this report.

Rutherford County Updates:  

• We can report that more than $17,726,000 has been awarded in Individual Assistance (IA) to residents of Rutherford County as of 05-12-2025.

• Of the 14,247 valid registrations

  • over 12,336 were referred to Individual Assistance (IA)

  • 8,909 have been found eligible so far for Housing Assistance (HA) and/or Other Needs Assistance (ONA).

• Currently there are 0 households from Rutherford County checked into hotels through the TSA program.

North Carolina updates: 

• $445.8 million approved for 159,726 households, including money for rent, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused needs.

• $481 million in Public Assistance funding obligated to the state to support community recovery.

• $195.6 million disbursed by the U.S. Small Business Administration in low-interest disaster loans.

• 197 households are currently living in FEMA temporary housing units.

• 5,492 households have received rental assistance.

• 7,700 families have received $22.1 million for repair or replacement of private-access roads and bridges.

• 7.3 million cubic yards of debris has been cleared from public rights of ways, 5.5 million by state contractors and 1.8 million by federal contractors.

• The waterway debris mission has removed almost 4.2 million cubic yards of debris: approximately 3.8 million by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and 330,832 cubic yards by state contractors.

• $189.9 million paid in claims by the National Flood Insurance Program.

LAKE STATUS

 

Lake Levels: The current Lake Level is about 980.5 Mean Sea Level (MSL) as of 5/18/25. 

• 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 a change in the Lake Level.

Water Quality Tests: The water was tested recently and we are still awaiting 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. 
• Review the latest results here.  
• 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 subaqueous utilities. 

• 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, hopefully in 2026.

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

IN THE NEWS

1.  Hurricane Helene's Deadly Warning: How Hurricane Helene became an ominous warning about America's lack of preparedness. FRONTLINE and NPR draw on a decade of reporting on disasters and their... PBS special airs on May 20, 2025  Watch the trailer here.

2.  NHC updates cone of uncertainty and other parameters ahead of hurricane season: by Meteorologist Stacy Lynn Nationwide, published 12:00 PM ET May 15, 2025. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has unveiled updates to the cone of uncertainty for the upcoming hurricane season, as well as refined other parameters. What You Need To Know

• Inland tropical watches and warnings will be shown on an experimental map with the cone, similar to 2024 experimental map
• Potential Tropical Cyclones will be issued up to 72 hours out from a storm
• A new rip current risk map will be provided by NHC during a tropical event

     Thanks to positive feedback from the 2024 hurricane season, the cone of uncertainty graphic will now display inland watches and warnings to better communicate the wind risk away from the coast. The size of the track forecast cone will appear slightly smaller, about 3 to 5% in the Atlantic basin, compared to 2024. According to the NHC, “the cone represents the probable track of the center of a tropical cyclone." BY Meteorologist Stacy Lynn, published 12:00 PM ET May 15, 2025  Read more here.

3.  Governor Shares Recommendations on Proposed FEMA Reforms: “There is no doubt that FEMA could be better and faster. But let us improve it, not abolish it.” Governor Josh Stein this week shared his recommendations on key reforms at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to improve federal disaster response. Governor Stein provided his input to the President’s FEMA Review Council in a letter in response to the Department of Homeland Security’s request for public input.   “Nobody wants disaster to strike their state, but we know that simply hoping for the best is not a viable strategy. We must take steps to make disasters less deadly and less costly while also being ready to support survivors when storms hit,” said Governor Stein. “North Carolina remains committed to working in good faith with the federal government and this Council on ways to improve federal disaster support, and we encourage the Council to keep the needs of our people at the forefront. Let’s improve FEMA, not abolish it.”

Governor Stein proposed the following four specific reforms: 

• Offer fast, flexible funding. “The federal funds that arrive in communities after a disaster are a lifeline for people and governments, but it is no secret that these funds often move too slowly and with too much red tape,” said Governor Stein. Stein proposed that FEMA disburse block grants, with states submitting pre-approved action plans to FEMA before disaster strikes so that they remain accountable.  

• Make permanent repairs immediately eligible for FEMA Funding. Governor Stein pointed out that currently, FEMA funds can only be used to rebuild structures to temporary or pre-storm condition. Directing those funds toward permanent repairs would save taxpayer dollars and make structures stronger and more resilient.  

• Move away from reimbursement programs to better support local governments. Current reimbursable programs require cash-strapped local governments to put up funding or seek funding from the state to complete a project that is then subject to FEMA reimbursement. FEMA should shift to monitoring and compliance rather than gradually approving projects one-by-one in order to get money to local governments faster.  

• Streamline the process for survivors. Disaster survivors currently have to fill out a variety of convoluted forms in order to apply for help. A common application that is sent to all relevant federal agencies would reduce the burden on survivors and help agencies coordinate with each other. 

Governor Stein also urged the FEMA Review Council to maintain federal involvement in disaster preparedness and recovery, particularly through supporting resilience efforts in communities that are vulnerable to disasters. FEMA recently cancelled the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program that was funding disaster preparedness construction in North Carolina, and Governor Stein suggested that while the program can be improved, it should not be permanently canceled. 

Resilience efforts save lives and money. A recent U.S. Chamber of Commerce report found that every $1 spent on resilience and disaster preparedness saves $13 in economic impact, damage, and clean-up costs. Click here to read Governor Stein’s full letter. 

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 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 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.  

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.

Boys Camp Road Temporary Road Closure:  The Town of Lake Lure is planning a temporary road closure on Boys Camp Road on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from the hours of 9:00 PM until 5:00 AM on Friday, May 23, 2025. 

• The purpose of the road closure is to replace a culvert pipe under the road.
• We have scheduled the work time at night to minimize the impact to the community.
• The road will be impassable during this project on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from the hours of 9:00 PM until 5:00 AM on Friday, May 23, 2025. 
• The goal will be to finish the project as quickly as possible so the road can reopen in the morning. 
• Note that the Lake Lure Fire Department and Police Department will stage emergency equipment (a fire engine and a police car) on the other side of the crossing in case they are needed. Questions: For questions, please email Communincations@townoflakelure.com

Proctor Road: These road repairs began 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.

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.

ICF Meeting: Meeting with ICF, our FEMA/Insurance consultant for Lake Lure Project Formulation. They are tracking the status of Lake Lure's 31 Project Worksheets and the 67 Damage Inventory Line Items with FEMA. 

Town Council Meeting: Thank you to all those who joined the Town of Lake Lure for their Regular Town Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting was held at The Lakeside Terrace at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure at 153 Mountains Blvd. Lake Lure, NC 28746. The public was invited to attend the meeting. For those who were unable to attend, you may review the meeting summary .  

Sewer System Meetings: Town leaders participated in meetings related to the Town's sewer system.

Media: Mayor Pritchett participated in a TV interview this week with WSPA (CBS Channel 7), highlighting the fact that the Town of Lake Lure is open even as we continue to work through the storm recovery process.

Media: Mayor Pritchett, Commissioner Proctor, Fire Chief/Emergency Management Coordinator Waycaster, and Commissioner DiOrio participated in a TV interview this week with WSOC (ABC Channel 9 in Charlotte).  They are producing a one hour special on Hurricane Preparedness that will be airing later in the month.  

 

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)

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

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 and is expected to be completed by 7/10/25, 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. 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 placed in Morse Park, just inside the walkway to the Gazebo.  The date is uncertain but updates will be posted here.  

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 not provided a firm date for reopening. 

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) GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

6/13/25 at 9:00: Lake Lure Flag Day Ceremony (at the Gazebo 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!

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/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)

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

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