Schumer: Binghamton University's Downtown Center Suffered Severe Flood Damage During Tropical Storm Lee, But FEMA Paperwork Mistake Deducted $2.8 Million Meant To Help Rebuild & Recover -- Schumer urges FEMA To Swiftly Review & Approve Binghamton's Appeal For Full Fed Funding

Press Release

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today urged the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to swiftly review and approve an appeal submitted by Binghamton University for federal funds to which they are entitled. Schumer explained that, following Tropical Storm Lee, FEMA approved a total project cost of $3,188,766 in funding for repairs to its University Downtown Center. The Center was inundated by flood water during Tropical Storm Lee, causing extensive damage to all electrical and mechanical services that support the building's functions. However, following this decision, FEMA then mistakenly deducted $2,778,462 from the federal funding it was allocated for "anticipated flood insurance proceeds." But because Binghamton University did not have this insurance on the Downtown Center building, it was still entitled to full federal funding under FEMA policy. FEMA then only approved Binghamton University for $410,304, prompting the university to appeal the decision. While Binghamton University is still waiting to receive a review on its appeal, Schumer said the university should not be left to foot the remainder of this high cost for repairs. As a result, Schumer said FEMA should quickly review and approve this appeal, as well as Binghamton's other appeal , and restore full funding to the project that will help Binghamton University rehabilitate this critical building on its campus. Schumer also noted that multiple SUNY campuses that suffered damage during Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee have pending appeals that may also have similar insurance issues; he urged FEMA to adjudicate the other appeals as quickly as possible.

"A multi-million dollar mistake on FEMA's part should not mean a massive project funding gap for Binghamton University," saidSenator Schumer. "The university needs these federal funds to rehabilitate a critical building on its campus, but the project remains at a standstill until these funds are signed, sealed and delivered to Binghamton. So I am urging FEMA to expeditiously review and approve Binghamton University's appeal for the full federal funding it needs and deserves to get this project underway and rebuild these vital facilities."

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