Congressman Cole announces $26 million in tornado relief for southern Oklahoma recreation area

 

Oklahoma Congressman Tom Cole says he’s obtained nearly $26 million in tornado relief for damages from 2024 storms that hit the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. It will come through the National Park Service.

In a recent newsletter to his constituents, the long-time Republican Representative announced the $25.97 million in funds.

“This funding will be used to repair the tornado damage including maintenance buildings, campground trails, debris removal, and other damages. Additionally, this will help with improving the safety and security of the infrastructure and fences surrounding the area, as well as cover the relocation of the bison herd, pedestrian bridge construction, and make new and existing structures more resilient,” said Rep. Cole.

He also indicated he expected more “upcoming funds secured for other areas in Oklahoma’s Fourth District affected by the tornadoes.”

One area of the Fourth District is Marietta. The southern city was hard hit by an EF4 tornado on April 27, 2024 and one motorist on I-35 was killed. The storm also destroyed 30 homes, a large grocery store and a large Dollar Tree distribution center.

Dollar Tree later announced it would not rebuild the center where 400 people were employed. Since the storm, nearly all of the center has been demolished and removed and only a large slab of concrete remains.