Pensacola Hurricane Isaias Public Damage and Recovery Costs Top $47 Million

PENSACOLA, FL (NewsRadio 92.3) -- The City of Pensacola now estimates Hurricane Isaias caused more than $47 million in damage to public facilities and government recovery costs, while crews continue a debris operation expected to last several more weeks.

The latest assessment includes approximately $16 million in projected debris-removal costs.

Another $24.5 million involves damage to city-owned buildings, parks and other facilities, including Pensacola International Airport, the Port of Pensacola, fire stations and community facilities.

The figure is separate from the city's earlier estimate of more than $71 million in damage to privately owned property.

The new federal Major Disaster Declaration means eligible city expenses can now qualify for FEMA Public Assistance.

Reeves said the federal reimbursement could cover roughly $12 million of the city's projected $16 million debris bill.

Pensacola has collected approximately 347,000 cubic yards of hurricane debris so far.

About two-thirds of city roads have received at least some debris collection, although city officials emphasize that does not mean those streets are finished.

The contractor estimates it will take approximately three more weeks to complete the first full collection pass.

A second pass will begin immediately afterward.

The city has also established a dedicated debris hotline at 833-495-3573 for residents with questions about pickup, eligible debris and how material should be prepared.

The hotline operates from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., seven days a week.

FEMA Individual Assistance for residents remains under federal review.