Southwest Montana News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) took to the House floor to thank the countless community leaders who supported the rebuilding effort one year after massive floods destroyed homes, businesses, and property in southern Montana.

“The people of Montana have always been stronger than the challenges they face,” said Rep. Rosendale. “One year ago, when record-breaking floods devasted the state – local leaders in Park, Stillwater, and Carbon counties did not let this disaster destroy their communities. Instead, they came together to support their friends and neighbors when they needed it most. I am proud of the work we’ve done so far and want to thank the countless Montanans who stepped up to help their communities during this difficult time."

Watch Congressman Rosendale's full remarks on the House floor.

Key Background:

• In the aftermath of this tragic natural disaster, community leaders worked overtime to help Montanans recover. Chief among them Red Lodge Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sherry Weamer, who helped rebuild her town’s shattered businesses near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Congressman Rosendale honored Sherry with an insert in the Congressional Record thanking her for her hard work. Read Sherry’s entry in the Congressional Record here.
• Local officials were also crucial to the rebuilding effort. After floods destroyed critical infrastructure that connects Montana’s Gateway communities with Yellowstone, Superintendent Cam Sholly sprang into action, accelerating the opening of Old Gardiner Road in just four months, and restoring tourist traffic that supports the area’s economy.      
• Congressman Rosendale was instrumental in securing federal funding for the areas impacted. This included $3 million in Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) emergency relief funding for the Montana Department of Transportation to repair roads and highways. Read more here.

When the road to Sibanye-Stillwater mine collapsed, Congressman Rosendale worked with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) personnel to secure funding for the rebuilding project. FEMA public assistance dollars covered 75% of the cost of this project. A year later, the reconstruction of Nye Road nears completion.

Original source can be found here.