Fort Worth takes major steps to help residents recover from Winter Storm Uri and prepare for future emergencies

Fort Worth, Texas – Fort Worth is pushing forward with efforts to help residents recover from the devastating impact of 2021’s Winter Storm Uri while also preparing for future emergencies. In a major move, city councilmembers approved two initiatives on Tuesday, allocating $27.5 million from the Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program. These initiatives aim to repair homes damaged by the storm and improve the city’s ability to handle extreme weather events.
Helping Homeowners Recover
One of the key programs approved is the Homeowner Assistance Rehabilitation and Repair Program (HARRP). This initiative is designed to assist low- and moderate-income homeowners who are still struggling with storm damage. Those earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income may qualify for up to $150,000 to fix their homes. This funding is available for single-family homes that suffered verifiable damage during the 2021 storm but have yet to be fully repaired.
Mobile homeowners will also be eligible for aid, though at a reduced rate. Special priority will be given to residents who reached out to the W.A.T.E.R. (Waterline Assistance through Emergency Repairs) program right after the storm but received little to no assistance. This ensures that those in the most urgent need get the help they deserve.
Strengthening Emergency Preparedness
The city is not just looking at past damages—it is also preparing for the future. A new Disaster Mitigation Plan has been approved, with $4.08 million in funding to improve Fort Worth’s ability to respond to severe weather.
Key elements of the plan include:
- Installing permanent generators at Handley Meadowbrook, Riverside, and Worth Heights community centers so they can serve as emergency hubs during crises.
- Expanding salt and brine storage to improve winter road treatment, which will reduce accidents and ensure emergency vehicles can reach hospitals and other critical facilities.
This investment exceeds federal requirements and underscores Fort Worth’s dedication to keeping residents safe.
Public Input and Moving Forward
Before finalizing the funding plan, the city held a public comment period from December 19, 2024, to January 21, 2025. This gave residents a chance to share their thoughts and concerns about the grant amendment.
Fort Worth’s commitment to recovery and preparedness is clear. By repairing homes and improving emergency infrastructure, the city is working to build a stronger, safer, and more resilient community for all.