Nearly $1.8M in FEMA Funds Approved to Repair Lake Lure Marina Docks After Hurricane Helene

Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced Wednesday that the Town of Lake Lure will receive nearly $1.8 million in federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to repair and restore the Lake Lure Marina docks damaged during Hurricane Helene in 2024.

According to a statement, FEMA has approved $1,796,864.36 under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The funding will support permanent repairs to the marina’s floating and fixed docks, gangways, and related infrastructure.

“The Lake Lure Marina is central to the town’s identity, encouraging tourism and recreation on one of the most beautiful lakes in North Carolina,” Moore said. “Rebuilding the docks and boardwalks will restore a key part of Lake Lure’s waterfront so the town can continue attracting visitors and drive further economic recovery.”

Moore also credited the Trump administration and FEMA for approving the funding, saying the investment will help Western North Carolina continue recovering from the storm’s impacts.

Project plans include the removal and replacement of storm-damaged components, as well as a hazard mitigation proposal aimed at reducing future damage. That mitigation work will reinforce dock anchoring systems through the addition of pile anchors and telescoping spud poles designed to prevent displacement during severe weather.

The total cost of the marina repair project is estimated at $1,996,515.95, with FEMA covering 90 percent of the expense. The remaining share is expected to be covered by the state, consistent with FEMA public assistance requirements.

Hurricane Helene caused widespread damage across Western North Carolina in late September 2024, prompting multiple federal disaster declarations and ongoing recovery efforts coordinated by FEMA, state, and local governments.