Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates 1/24/25

Please take a moment to review the Lake Lure Storm Recovery updates and information as of Friday, 1/24/25.    

Lake Status

• Lake Restoration Status: Please note that although improvements in and around the lake are very encouraging, the debris and silt/sedimentation removal process is ongoing.  The timeline for reopening the lake remains uncertain at this time. The restoration process is unprecedented and is also impacted by funding.  Town Council and Town leadership are keenly aware of the importance of reopening the lake as soon as it is safe to do so.  The Town is awaiting next steps from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

• Lake Silt/Sedimentation Removal: The USACE will continue work on debris removal through March. The next step is a contract for silt and sedimentation removal from the lake. (You may think of this as dredging, but the terminology used by USACE is silt/sedimentation removal.)  We are extremely eager to reach this stage of the recovery process and will post updates as new information on silt/sedimentation removal becomes available. 

• Lake Level: The Lake is about 2.5 feet below full pond at approximately 988.1 (+/-).  The lake is being maintained at this level for optimum debris removal.  If there are plans to change the level, this information will be posted in Town News and on Facebook.  As a reminder, only approved contractors are allowed on the lake, even if the level rises.   
• Water Quality Tests: Town officials continue to be pleased with the results of the water samples. The latest water tests all came back within normal ranges, except for turbidity.  Turbidity is the only result that remains high, but those numbers have been declining and this is a very good sign of progress. Turbidity is the measurement of water clarity (i.e., transparency). The latest water quality tests are posted at the following link along with the history of the results. https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/lake-lure-water-sample-reports

Debris Removal

• Debris Removal Updates: The USACE, in coordination with AshBritt Environmental and local contractors, continue efforts to remove debris.  As of 1/23/25:
• Over 32,782 CY of debris have been removed from the right of way, (+ 1,973 CY since last week)
• Over 27669 tons of sediment and silt have been removed from Town and the parks, (+ 2,267 tons since last week)
• Over 24,558 cubic yards (CY) of debris have been removed from the Lake, (+ 1,121 CY since last week).
• USACE surveyed Lake Lure and created a 3D map of 720 acres of the lake bottom that is being used to identify Large debris that is underwater, like docks or boats. 

• Rutherford County Debris Removal/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. Hours for pickup are Monday-Friday 10:00 am-2:00 pm.  To get the double-ground mulch-like product, vehicles must check in at the Landfill scale house before being directed to the chip/mulch yard where an attendant will be on-site to direct and assist with loading. The public will not need to leave their vehicles during the visit. There is no limit to the amount the public may take while supplies last. The double-ground mulch-like product has not been treated for pests or parasites.  The double-ground mulch-like product is repurposed from the Hurricane Helene cleanup collected throughout the County, such as tree limbs and brush. The materials are combined and ground into a useable material for landscaping.

• Shoreline Debris Removal: Contractors are continuing to work to remove debris from the shoreline.  They will remove shoreline debris in the water and up to 5 feet above full pond.  Contractors are keenly aware of the shifting debris. Crews are making their way around the lake and will make additional passes to certain areas to get as much of the debris out as possible.  In fact, Lake Lure is exceeding the original expectations for debris removal and the scope of work to remove the debris is being expanded to be sure all the debris is removed.

Political Updates

• Governor Josh Stein: Governor Stein released the following statement regarding President Trump’s visit to western North Carolina:  “It’s a positive signal that President Trump made his first visit outside the capital as President to our mountains. I thanked the President for coming and asked for his support of $20 billion in additional disaster relief and for 100% reimbursement of eligible FEMA expenses for another six months. “Families, businesses, and communities are struggling and need these urgent resources to help them rebuild. I look forward to working with the Trump Administration in the coming weeks and months to get people what they need to rebuild and recover.”  President Trump visited areas of Western North Carolina today, 1/24/25.

• Lake Lure is staying connected: Town of Lake Lure Council Members and Leaders are meeting regularly with our political representatives to continue to articulate the needs of our community.  Council members have with the President of the United States, the Governor, and they meet with all other local representatives on an ongoing basis. The Town of Lake Lure has provided a comprehensive list of infrastructure needs with cost estimates to all levels of government. Town officials have received positive feedback from representatives regarding the detailed information provided.  To continue to expedite funding and support for Lake Lure’s recovery, Council approved Hager Strategic Solutions as the new Lobbyist on 1/22/25.  Mike Hager, President and Founder of Hager Strategic Solutions (HSS) has resided in Rutherford County for the last 30 years. He is a former Republican member of the NC House of Representatives, representing District 112. He was first elected to the chamber in 2010. Mr. Hager served as Majority Leader, Majority Whip and Majority Freshman Leader during his time in office. Since 2017, Hager Strategic Solutions has helped clients achieve their legislative strategic goals through political consulting and lobbying. With a combined 20+ years of experience, the HSS team can help you promote your policy reform and achieve results. HSS has extensive connections in the state legislative and executive branches and works closely with elected officials to ensure optimal results for you and your organization. HSS uses innovative approaches and proven strategies to guide legislation through the North Carolina General Assembly and achieve the best possible outcomes.  The Town looks forward to working with Mr. Hagar to continue restoring Lake Lure.

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 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 January 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 is by February 28, 2025. https://drivenc.gov/?type=incident&id=715074

• Proctor Road: The Town has worked with Morgan Corporation to begin addressing the landslide issue, creating additional space for passage until the problems can be fully resolved.  

• Boys Camp Road Permanent Bridge: The temporary bridge on Boys Camp Road is performing well but a permanent bridge is being designed.  A timeline for this project is uncertain at this time.

Local Projects

• Damaged Lake Structure List: Community Development Department is maintaining the list of Helene flood-damaged structures (lake structures like boat houses and docks that were damaged, as well as homes or businesses that were flooded).  If your property was damaged and you have not been contacted by a Community Development staff person, please call 828-625-9983, x-117 or email mwilliams@townoflakelure.com so that we can help you get on your way to recovery. Very important: permits are required and lake access is still limited, but we can help you navigate through the process.

• Green Space: If you have been by the Green Space today you may have noticed the work that is being done across from the Fire Station.  This project is aimed at repairing the draining to prevent further erosion.  The work could not take place this week due to the freezing temperatures but the project will continue very soon.

• Cell Tower: Plans for building the cell tower off Boys Camp Road (behind Town Hall and across the river) are ongoing.  The purpose for this location is that it provides the greatest reach for first responders across the Hickory Nut Gorge.  The position of the cell tower is shifting slightly so the new location is being re-verified and the latest estimated target date is to begin construction in the spring of 2025.  The property has been cleared of debris and sediment in preparation for the upcoming construction. A surveyor will be here this month to continue the process as the project moves forward.

FEMA Updates

• ​​​DR-4827-NC Disaster Fact Sheet (DFS075) Jan 22 2025: FEMA continues to work with survivors in Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program. FEMA is contacting Tropical Storm Helene survivors staying in hotel rooms paid for by FEMA to ensure their continued need for the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. The short-term sheltering program pays for hotel rooms for homeowners and renters displaced by Helene while they find permanent housing solutions or make repairs to their homes. Eligibility reviews are a key part of the program’s management. These occur periodically to ensure that available rooms are being used by those in need.

• Due to the extenuating circumstances in Western North Carolina, FEMA representatives will be calling any survivors who may become ineligible to work with them and to give them additional time to check out of their hotel room. Now, instead of seven days, survivors who are no longer eligible for the program will have three weeks’ notice.

• Keep your recovery on track. Survivors who still need assistance with their recovery should stay in touch with FEMA to provide regular updates on their housing status and update contact information so their recovery process is not delayed. Anyone who has received a notification and still needs housing assistance, should call the helpline at 800- 621-FEMA (3362) or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. No appointment is needed. To find those center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a ZIP code to 43362.

• Deadline Extended: FEMA has extended the deadline to apply for Hurricane Helene assistance in North Carolina to Thursday, 2/6/25.  "North Carolina Tropical Storm Helene survivors now have until Feb. 6, 2025, to apply for assistance with FEMA. Homeowners and renters in 39 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians with uninsured losses from Tropical Storm Helene are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance." Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply at the local Disaster Recovery Center at the Mountains Branch Library, online at DisasterAssistance.gov, or on the FEMA App, on mobile devices, or call the FEMA Helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. 

• 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.

• FEMA Resources: Please visit the following link to review the full library of FEMA documents provided in response to Hurricane Helene: https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/fema-resources-and-information

Contractor Information

• ONLY APPROVED CONTRACTORS MAY GO ON THE LAKE! For everyone’s safety, Lake Lure is closed

except for approved contractors.  The timeline for Lake restoration is uncertain at this time.  The timeline for removing all of the debris, silt, and sedimentation is unknown.  Updates regarding Lake restoration and the timeline for reopening the Lake will be provided here as new information becomes available. 

• Contractors: The Lake Lure Town Council has announced that the Lake is now open to approved contractors to navigate the waters to haul out or service motorized boats at their customers’ request. Additionally, approved service contractors may begin work on the lake as outlined below. 

    Please note that lake debris removal continues at this time and their work is a priority. 

• While on Lake Lure during this continued State of Emergency, navigate the waters with respect for other contractors. 
• Debris contractors working with the US Army Corps of Engineers must take precedence and should be yielded to whenever possible. Please do not impede their progress.
• Stay clear of their boats and barges and do not block their path or interfere with their work in any way. 
• Failure to comply may result in discontinuation of lake privileges.

Debris Contractors as well as commercial service contractors in the Lake Lure Commercial Model are now authorized to access the lake using their commercially permitted boats.

• Commercial service contractors not currently approved in the commercial model may apply for a commercial service permit by contacting prladmin@townoflakelure.com to be considered.
• This will allow work on lake structures to resume from water; however, concrete work is excluded at this time due to a need for fluctuating lake levels for debris removal. (Please note that permits are still required)
• For assistance with boathouse clean up you may contact Communications@townoflakelure.com for resources.

Building contractors should submit a scope of work regarding lake use activities (with permits) to Community Development.  You may email kmartin@townoflakelure.com with any questions.

• Approved commercial boat removal companies include:
  • Barry Capps Marine
  • Gotcha Covered Boat & Marine (Trailering Only)
  • Angler’s Choice (Trailering Only)
  • Driftwood Marine (Trailering Only)
  • Hartwell Lake Service
  • Lake Lure Dock Company
  • Lake Lure Marine
  • Lake Response/TowBoatUS
  • Master Dock
  • Sea Tow

Note: Sea Tow, Lake Response/TowBoatUS and Hartwell Lake Service are able to remove boats from boat houses and transport them to the lake for removal.

• Commercial Contractors: Approved commercial building contractors in the commercial model include:

• Freeman Stone Masonry
• K-Enterprise
• Lake Lure Dock
• Master Dock
• Shoreline Management & Docks, LL

Boat Retrieval

• Motorized Boats: 278 motorized boats have been removed from the lake thus far. 

• Non-Motorized Boats: 93 non-motorized boats have been recovered with 30 non-motorized boats have been returned to their owners. If non-motorized boats have a prior permit, the owners are being contacted.  If you are looking for a non-motorized boat, please contact the Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department at prladmin@townoflakelure.com for assistance locating your vessel. If you have any vessels on your property, please contact them as well so they can be retrieved.

Hard Trash/Debris Pick Up

• Reminder that online requests have resumed for pickup for Hard Trash/Debris Pick Up within the Town of Lake Lure. Hard Trash Pickup will occur on Fridays.
  • The is the link for adding an online work order: https://townoflakelure.novokiosk.com/ 
  • For future reference: This link is on the home page of the Town’s website under “Fix It”:
  • Note: Live Christmas Trees can be taken to the Pool Creek Picnic Park boat ramp for pickup until 2/1/25.

Note: County-Wide Debris Cleanup is occuring for those outside Town limits as well.  The County advised they will make three passes.  They cannot provide a schedule at this time. The US Army Corps of Engineers is also assisting with debris pick up through a contract with AshBritt.  

Sewer System Updates

• Plans for the sewer system restoration/replacement project are uncertain at this time as the Town is awaiting updates on potential funding.  

• In the meantime, the lift station repairs below the dam are going well.  Everything is mechanically connected. We are running on portable pumps now. 

• The Waste Water Treatment Plant is operational and work is being done to fully restore the plant.

• All related work orders are being updated and will be presented in Town Council in February 2025.

• West-end Sewer System: Materials are in and contractors are ready to proceed with the work on the West-end sewer system.  The Town has been working hard to obtain easements and we are awaiting these easements to begin the work.  The work cannot begin until the easements are obtained from property owners. Town Council took legal steps to expedite the process on 1/14/25.

• Reminder - Utility Bills Resume in January: Please note that utility billing will resume in 2025.

Dam Updates

• The reservoir drain project at the dam is underway. The last concrete pours were completed behind the dam.  The drain will allow the town to lower the lake beyond 12 feet, if needed.  
• The target date for reservoir drain testing and project completion is later this month.
• The automation system for the Tainter Gates has been installed.
• Fencing is being installed along the abutments for safety.

Park and Trail Updates

• Dittmer-Watts Nature Trails (across from Ingles on Highway 9) are now open for public enjoyment. The Trails are open from dawn until dusk.
• Part of the Lake Lure Green Space (across the street from the Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department) is open for public enjoyment.  The Green Space is open from dawn until dusk.
• Pool Creek Picnic Park (adjacent to the Lake Lure Beach) is open for public enjoyment The Park is open from dawn until dusk.
• All other parks and trails are currently closed including Morse Park, the remaining portion of the Flowering Bridge, Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain Trail, Young’s Mountain Trail. The Town is working with     Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, Carolina Climbers Coalition, and AmeriCorps to restore Buffalo Creek Park and Weed Patch Mountain Trail.
• The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge Volunteers have been working diligently to continue to beautify the remaining grounds near the bridge. 
• Unfortunately, Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain Trail, Young’s Mountain Trail and the Flowering Bridge sustained significant damage from the hurricane and are closed until further notice.

Comprehensive Plan

• Foothills Regional Commission is resuming the effort to assist the Town in updating the Comprehensive Plan.  The tentative plan is to begin work in late spring - early summer. Updates will be provided as this work begins.  There will be multiple opportunities for the community to participate in the process so stay tuned for more information in the coming months.

Town Hall and Town Staff

• Town Hall was flooded and is closed at this time, as is the Welcome Center.
• The Town has applied for funding assistance for damages to Town Hall and future plans for this building cannot be determined until the outcome of this request is known.

•  Town Hall is currently operating out of office space in the Arcade Building including the Town Manager, Town

      Clerk, Administration, and Community Development.

•    You may reach staff at their phone online extensions and the staff Directory is located on the Town website at:

  https://www.townoflakelure.com/contact

•    For questions, you may email Communications@townoflakelure.com.

BEYOND FEMA - Support for Victims of Hurricane Helene

• Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach - Local Food Pantry: (828) 625-4683 Monday, Thursday, Friday 8:00 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/nc-disaster-relief-fund-helene

  • United Way of Rutherford County at 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

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: 

• 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

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.

 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.
• 1/1/10/25: Burnt Ridge Landslide repair.
• 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.

ONGOING

• Emergency repairs to the sewer system.
• Constant removal hazardous debris from the lake as a top priority is ongoing.
• Removal of boats with emphasis on hazardous vessels first.
• Town officials are working to develop a comprehensive plan for recovery of the lake which will include dredging but the focus at this juncture is removing hazardous debris and silt removal. \

QUESTIONS

You may review previous Storm Recovery Updates in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com

For questions, please email Communications@townoflakelure.com