Cochran, Wicker Announce $3.1 Million for Safe Rooms at Pontotoc Schools

Press Release

U.S. Senators Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) today announced grants totaling more than $3.1 million for construction of safe rooms at elementary schools in Pontotoc County.

A total of $3,106,800 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation grant program will fund the construction of a safe room at South Pontotoc and North Pontotoc Elementary Schools. Funding will be split evenly, with each school receiving $1,553,400. The federal funding will cover 90 percent of the construction cost.

"Hazardous weather poses unique challenges for rural communities like many throughout our state," said Cochran. "I appreciate FEMA support for these safe room projects, which are designed to be valuable, life-saving resources for Pontotoc County."

"Safety is a top priority for students, faculty, and staff -- not just in Pontotoc schools but across the state," Wicker said. "Safe rooms are an important precaution against severe weather. I am thankful FEMA grants will enable Pontotoc County to install these life-saving additions."

FEMA safe rooms are designed to provide immediate life-safety protection from tornadoes and severe weather. Both Pontotoc safe rooms will be built to withstand winds of up to 250 miles per hour and are being located to provide easy access for elementary, middle, and high school students, and staff.

The South Pontotoc Elementary School safe room will include 9,100 useable square feet to serve a population of 1,810. The North Pontotoc Elementary School safe room will include 9,180 useable square feet to protect approximately 1,826 students and staff, and local residents within a half mile radius.

The FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to states and local governments for long-term hazard mitigation activities designed to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters. Data shows that investments in hazard mitigation before a disaster creates a net savings of taxpayer dollars during post-disaster response and recovery periods.

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