HOLLAND, Mich. (WZZM) - US Representative Pete Hoekstra is on the lakeshore this afternoon to survey the damage after historic flooding this weekend in Holland. Hoekstra is meeting with local leaders who are seeking federal funding.
As much as eight inches of rain fell Friday, causing significant damage to roads, utilities and drains. Holland officials are also assessing private property damage, though no federal or state help is available to cover those losses.
Hoekstra, who is also running for governor in 2010 has pledged to help those impacted by the floods.
"We're gonna put all the resources together, on a coordinated level" Hoekstra told reporters gathered by a washed out 32nd Avenue, not far from the congressman's home. Bill Smith, Ottawa County's director of Emergency Management, tried to lower expectations about help for private damage. "Sad part is lot of people think Uncle Sam will have handouts, that's not gonna happen folks" Smith said.
24th Street, Lincoln Avenue to Apple Avenue remain closed, as do Azalea Avenue, South Short Drive to Bertsch and Hiawatha.
The city has reopened the following roads, but they have a temporary gravel surface so drivers should use caution. They include 24th Street, Waverly Road to Country Club Road, Lincoln Avenue, 16th Street to 24th Street.
City leaders want people to know there numerous roads, sidewalks and bike paths marked with orange cones. The cones indicate shoulder washouts, sinkholes or other similar issues.
Mayor Al McGeehan urged citizens to reach out and help those in need. "This is only the Monday after, we'll be dealing with this for weeks and for months to come" he said.
Windmill Island Gardens are expected to re-open on Monday. However, the boat launch at Kollen Park is closed until further notice due to an accumulation of debris in the launching area.
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