Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) made the trip down south to Fort Myers on Friday, which is considered ground zero of the devastating Hurricane Ian, to revisit the area six months following the natural disaster and its aftermath.
According to the DeSantis administration, the state of Florida and the Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has secured almost $800 million in Public Assistance obligations and nearly $1 billion in federal resiliency funds.
The state was even able to provide more travel trailers for those who lost their homes than the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) did.
“When Hurricane Ian made landfall, we made a promise that we would be there for impacted Floridians every step of the way through the recovery process,” said Gov. DeSantis.
“After the cameras left and the dust settled, we continued to stand up programs where the federal government dragged its feet and we continued to find ways to support Floridians whose needs did not fit into a specific government program. We are glad to be adding to these efforts with today’s announcements.”
The DeSantis administration has not been shy in sharing its belief that “The federal government dragged its feet to provide temporary housing trailers and home repairs.”
However, despite the credence that the Sunshine State was left behind, the state of Florida was able to recover incredibly quickly.
Important bridges that withstood massive damages were restored, in some instances, in as quickly as three days.
The Sanibel Causeway was restored in 15 days.
Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL), who represents the Fort Myers area (District 19), mentioned Gov. DeSantis’ visit to southwest Florida, and called the recovery efforts “historic.”
It's a great day in SWFL, especially when America's Governor is in town. I am proud to join Gov. DeSantis & give the people of my district an update on the historic recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian.
Thank you for your support and your leadership, Governor! SWFL Strong. https://t.co/lc5aMqdXRT
— Congressman Byron Donalds (@RepDonaldsPress) March 17, 2023
“It's a great day in SWFL, especially when America's Governor is in town. I am proud to join Gov. DeSantis & give the people of my district an update on the historic recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian. Thank you for your support and your leadership, Governor! SWFL Strong,” stated Rep. Donalds.
Hurricane season begins on June 1st.
