A new high-ground community is being established in eastern Kentucky. Local officials in Floyd County broke ground on the future site of New Hope Estates.
The neighborhood will comprise 34 homes for flood survivors, located along Cliff Road and Old Cliff Road in Prestonsburg.
Governor Beshear was among the officials at the groundbreaking and emphasized the importance of federal assistance after major natural disasters.
“I've talked to far too many families. I talked to one yesterday in Wayland that had lost her home in one flood, lost her trailer in another flood, but now has a house outside of the flood plain that is affordable and where she feels safe.”
The governor said this will help many people in the region.
“Team Kentucky's invested $10 million in this New Hope Estates site. It's going to build 34 homes, and all the homes are outside the floodplain.”
The governor said projects like this show the importance of federal assistance following natural disasters.
$2 million of that funding comes from Community Development Block Grants, and the other $8 million comes from CDBG Disaster Recovery funds.
Floyd County Judge Executive Robbie Williams said this was a great day for his citizens.
“The New Hope Estates will be a safe haven for our families and a place for them to create new memories. We’re building back stronger and smarter, ensuring a bright future for those who call Floyd County home.”
Eric Ratliff is the executive director of the Big Sandy Area Development District. He said his organization is ready to help.
“By developing the land right next door into housing for flood survivors, we’re welcoming more families to the neighborhood. In Kentucky, we look out for our neighbors, and these new homes will be a constant reminder of why we show up to work every day.”
Governor Beshear also visited the neighborhood of Wayland, in Floyd County. Wayland was the first high-ground neighborhood to be completed for flood survivors and includes 11 homes. Officials said more homes are on the way.
