The president has signed a declaration making federal funds available to support flood recovery efforts in Ellicott City.
President Obama has made federal funding available to state and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis, for emergency work. The money can also be used for the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe flooding July 30-31.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency said additional designations could be made later.
Gov. Larry Hogan requested the assistance in a letter to Obama on Aug. 12.
Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman said Friday he is asking the Howard County Council to extend the state of emergency in Ellicott City until Oct. 6.
The county plans to reopen all of Main Street at 7 a.m. Saturday, except for the area just east of Old Columbia Pike and just west of Maryland Avenue. Credentials will be required to have full, around-the-clock access to this area. Businesses will be required to obtain wristband credentials for their own clients, customers and contractors.
Residents will be allowed to reoccupy their units if their building has been inspected, approved and deemed safe for habitation.
The Patapsco River Bridge will reopen to two-way traffic for access to Maryland Avenue and St. Paul Street this weekend. Commuters are urged to use alternate routes.
On-street parking of personal vehicles will remain prohibited on Main Street.
Kittleman signed an initial state of emergency on July 30, hours after the flooding. On Aug. 5, the County Council approved the executive's request to extend it through Sept. 7. The County Council subsequently extended it again through Sept. 20.
