As Steuben County’s flood recovery progresses, homeowners rebuild

Canisteo, New York – For the past four months, residents of Steuben and Allegany counties have been working to rebuild following the extensive damage inflicted by the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby.

In August, areas such as Canisteo experienced severe flooding. Rushing water, laden with tons of debris, caused significant damage to roads and resulted in the destruction of homes.

Billy Weakland and his family managed to narrowly escape their home. The flood would completely destroy his house located just south of Canisteo. A significant number of his belongings were carried away into a nearby field.

Weakland and his family are unharmed. Currently sheltered by a temporary roof, they are anticipating the construction of a new home next year.

“We’re pleased with our current position,” Weakland remarked. “We’re maintaining a consistent pace.” The girls are engaged in their studies and employment. All is proceeding without any issues. For the time being, we feel at ease here.

Following the floods, Weakland sought emergency funding from the state in the ensuing weeks. Since that time, he has been collaborating with a local organization serving as a fiduciary to assist him in obtaining up to $50,000 in state aid for rebuilding efforts.

“Many others have lost everything just as we have,” Weakland stated. “I sincerely wish they secure the funding they require, and I hope they receive the assistance they need.”

“I appreciate our current situation,” he remarked. “The narrative might have unfolded differently.” It might have unfolded in a completely different way.

Throughout Canisteo, and close to where Weakland’s former residence stood, the remnants of debris carried away by the floods remain visible. Working crews have faced an abundance of debris to manage.

“A significant quantity of gravel and woody debris has accumulated in this area,” stated Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler. “Due to this flooding, water has flowed into the stream beds.”

Wheeler indicated that the damage from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby is projected to be around $50 million. The county continues its collaboration with FEMA to evaluate the work done and anticipates receiving reimbursement for specific projects over an extended timeframe.

In addition to significant road repairs, Wheeler emphasized the need for crews to take proactive measures in clearing adjacent streams and waterways to reduce the impact of any potential future flooding.

“Wheeler emphasized that the DEC (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation) must ensure proper oversight.” Our intention is to ensure that no fish or wildlife are harmed during this process. However, the significance of human life, along with the impact of flooding and property, holds paramount importance to us too.