New Jersey Governor Chris Christie announced on Friday that Hurricane Sandy caused nearly $29.4 billion in damages to personal properties, businesses and transportation and utility infrastructure in the state. However, Christie warned that the cost of the mega storm could rise once population shifts, effects on real estate values and next summer's tourism season were taken into consideration, The Star-Ledger reported.
In a statement released on Friday, Christie said, "The preliminary number is based on the best available data, field observations and geographical mapping, and supported by expert advice from my Cabinet commissioners and an outside consulting company."
"In a short period of time, we put together a comprehensive and responsible estimate, which may increase in the weeks ahead," the governor continued, "and I stand ready to work with our Congressional delegation and the Obama Administration to get the funding support New Jersey expects and deserves in the aftermath of this catastrophe."
According to the Star-Ledger, it is the first cost figure given by the Christie administration. The storm, which ravaged the East Coast, left millions without power and killed 39 people in New Jersey alone.
The governor's presentation of his preliminary request for federal aid did not include a breakdown of monetary allotment, NJ.com reported. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimated that close to 72,000 homes and businesses were damaged by the storm in New Jersey.
In neighboring New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo stated that he plans to ask for at least $30 billion in federal aid. According to the newspaper, the governors may potentially be forced to compete for limited funds. FEMA has $12 billion in disaster aid, leaving lawmakers to provide the remaining funds.
In his statement, Christie concluded, "We will continue to provide immediate relief for our citizens who were struck hard by Sandy. But be assured, I will spare no effort and waste no time to rebuild and restore our tourism industry, our transportation and utilities infrastructure and the lives of our citizens for the long term."
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