WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Mike Michaud praised the U.S. Department of Transportation’s decision to provide $500,000 in emergency repair funding for damage caused to Route 136 by severe flooding last month.  On July 5, Michaud sent a letter to Federal Highway Administrator Victor M. Menendez requesting emergency aid.

“This news couldn’t come at a better time for those who travel Route 136 between Auburn and Freeport,” said Michaud, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “I’m relieved that DOT has committed these vital resources to help repair some of the serious damages that befell Maine during last month’s storms.”

Preliminary estimates provided by the Maine Department of Transportation estimated damages to Route 136, which runs between Auburn and Freeport, at more than $1 million.  Repairs are especially necessary in Durham, where the Androscoggin River quickly rose above flood stage.  On June 2, Governor Paul LePage issued a State of Emergency proclamation for flooding damages experienced throughout the state in June.