Erwin Utilities Awarded More Than $67 Million for Hurricane Helene Recovery Projects

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The Town of Erwin and Unicoi County are taking another major step toward recovery following Hurricane Helene, with Erwin Utilities Authority receiving more than $67 million in U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Disaster Supplemental funding for two critical infrastructure projects.

The two awards represent a combined $82.4 million in total project investments and will support improvements to Erwin’s electrical and wastewater infrastructure — two areas that sustained significant damage during Hurricane Helene.

The first EDA investment provides $20.6 million toward the construction of a new electrical substation and transmission line serving the Town of Erwin and Riverside Industrial Park. The $24.3 million project is expected to create 137 new jobs and retain 403 jobs, while leveraging more than $24 million in private investment.

A second award of $46.5 million will support the capacity upgrade and reconstruction of the Erwin Utilities Authority wastewater treatment plant. The existing facility was significantly damaged by flooding during Hurricane Helene. The $58.2 million project is expected to create 306 new jobs and retain 898 jobs, while leveraging more than $54 million in private investment.

Together, the projects will strengthen critical infrastructure, support existing businesses and help position Erwin for continued economic growth and recovery.

FTDD Helps Move Projects Forward

First Tennessee Development District (FTDD) assisted Erwin Utilities Authority throughout the EDA application process. FTDD’s Bill Forrester worked with Erwin Utilities to help develop and submit the applications for these significant disaster recovery investments.

FTDD will also serve as the grant administrator for both projects, providing ongoing administrative and grant management support as the projects move forward.

“These investments are an important part of Erwin’s continued recovery from Hurricane Helene,” said Bill Forrester, Director of Economic Development, Planning and Housing Initiatives, “FTDD is proud to have helped Erwin Utilities navigate the application process and looks forward to continuing to support these projects through grant administration.”

The investments are part of EDA’s FY2025 Disaster Supplemental funding, which provides resources to communities working to recover from major disasters and rebuild critical infrastructure.

For Erwin and Unicoi County, these projects represent more than infrastructure improvements. They are investments in the community’s ability to recover, grow and prepare for the future.

FTDD is proud to partner with Erwin Utilities Authority and communities across Northeast Tennessee as they turn recovery efforts into long-term opportunities.