The location is in downtown Cleveland across from the former First Baptist Church, in what was called the Annex Building which is now owned by Lee University.
According to CBCEMA director Troy Spence, the federal officials could be operational by Friday morning or afternoon.
“We had a number of gracious offers from people who could donate space and we appreciate those offers. We have to follow FEMA’s standards in selecting a location. They have to be compliant in ADA laws and other areas as well as ease of utilities access,” Spence said.
“Once utilities such as computer lines and phones are installed today, FEMA should be able to begin seeing those affected by the March 2 tornado which struck several counties including Bradley.”
DRCs have also been established in other counties including one at the McMinn County Fire and Rescue for McMinn and Polk residents, according to Susan Solomon, Disaster information officer for FEMA.
“The address is 1018 Tennessee Ave., 37331, and hours of operation are 8 to 6 Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday,” Solomon said.
Solomon also encouraged anyone with storm damage from March 2 to register and report to FEMA.
“Renters, homeowners, business owners, anyone with damage should report. Fill out all paperwork,” she said.
Solomon said Small Business Administration loans and other help may be available for those affected.
“Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of this disaster,” according to the announcement from FEMA.
Bradley County residents had $3,198,593 in damage. Included in that assessment were six homes which were destroyed and 13 others heavily damaged, 20 moderately damaged and at least 48 affected.
A total of 87 homes were impacted in some way by the storms, according to Spence.
The initial assessment also included $644,400 in losses by at least two businesses.
While office space is being established, those affected residents can begin the process for requesting aid by going online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
According to FEMA’s information on disaster notification, Terry R. Quarles has been named federal coordinating officer for federal recovery operations in the area.
Hours and days of visits for residents at the Bradley County DRC will be established and announced.
Cleveland-Bradley Community Action Network continues to work with individuals on their unmet immediate needs. Reach CAN by calling 308-3467. Bradley Baptist Association has been aiding with tree and brush cutting and can be contacted at 476-5493. Cleveland Cleanup continues its campaign. Contact Laura Mountain via email at clevelandcleanup@gmail.com, for each week’s location targeted for cleanup from both April 27, 2011, and the March 2 storms.
