NEW YORK – The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced that it has approved more than $114 million in Public Assistance (PA) funds to reimburse the New York University (NYU) Langone Medical Center for emergency repairs, patient evacuation and other expenses incurred as a result of Hurricane Sandy.

“When Hurricane Sandy struck New York, workers quickly evacuated and safely relocated 250 patients,” said Michael F. Byrne, FEMA federal coordinating officer. “Their work during and after the storm was extraordinary. I am glad that we are able to expedite this money to help NYU Medical Center.”

Once the storm had passed, water was pumped out of flooded buildings, crews cleaned and sanitized facilities and emergency repairs were completed. Thorough inspections were conducted to ensure that the facilities were safe to enter.

The FEMA PA program reimburses state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations 75 percent of costs for disaster-related expenses associated with emergency protective measures, debris removal, and the repair and restoration of damaged infrastructure. In order to qualify, damage must be a direct result of Hurricane Sandy. NYU Langone Medical Center will receive more than $114 million from FEMA.

Private non-profit agencies that provide critical services to the community may apply directly to FEMA for funding of emergency and permanent work. The deadline for Requests for Public Assistance, which was due to expire, has been extended. 

The new deadlines are:

• Dec. 29, 2012: Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Richmond, Suffolk and Queens Counties

• Jan. 2, 2013: Rockland and Westchester Counties

• Jan. 12, 2013: Orange, Putnam, Sullivan and Ulster Counties

For more information on New York’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4085,
http://twitter.com/FEMASandy, www.facebook.com/FEMASandy and www.fema.gov/blog