Houston OKs $314M disaster recovery plan after Beryl, derecho

Houston has approved a $314 million recovery plan for housing, infrastructure, and emergency preparedness more than a year after Hurricane Beryl and the derecho.

HOUSTON — More than a year after Hurricane Beryl and the derecho left lasting damage across the city, Houston leaders have approved a massive recovery package aimed at rebuilding and strengthening the city for future disasters.

On Wednesday, City Council gave the green light to over $314 million in federal recovery funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Nearly $100 million will go toward housing, providing grants and assistance for homeowners and renters still struggling to recover.

The remaining $214 million will fund infrastructure repairs, community restoration projects, and improvements to emergency response systems. City leaders say these investments are not only about rebuilding but also about preparing for what’s next.

“…we welcome input from council members at large, certainly district representatives, to make sure they have the input from their constituents as to what they consider essential. We’ve done a thorough review, talking to our first responders, public works, and health departments,” a city official said.

A major component of the plan includes $101 million for backup power and generators at critical city facilities, ensuring vital services remain online when storms hit.

Officials say the goal is to help families return to safe, permanent homes while also creating stronger infrastructure and better emergency readiness for the future.

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