The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Emergency Relief (ER) Program, administered by the NDOT Local Public Assistance, helps local public agencies (LPAs) secure federal aid reimbursement for disaster-related infrastructure repairs. The program ensures roads and bridges are restored after a disaster event.

Program Requirements

A disaster declaration issued at the federal or state level
An estimated $700,000 or more in estimated damages across FA routes statewide
Damaged FA routes restored to pre-declared-disaster condition

Emergency vs. Permanent Repairs

Emergency repairs seek to stabilize conditions, while permanent repairs seek to restore the FA route to pre-disaster conditions. LPAs are empowered to begin emergency repairs immediately following the declared event to minimize extent of damage, protect remaining facilities, or restore essential traffic.

Project Implementation

ER-funded permanent repair projects must follow FHWA requirements. NDOT oversees compliance with all federal and state requirements. The reimbursement documentation submitted showing cost, justification, and compliance with requirements is a critical component to final ER eligibility and reimbursement.

Helpful Tools

The NDOT Emergency Relief Program Guide provides Nebraska-specific guidance on eligibility and administration of the FHWA Emergency Relief (ER) program. It supplements the FHWA ER Manual and applies to federal aid (FA) routes within local road systems. State and National Functional Classification Maps are available in NDOT’s Map Library.

When to Use This Guide

LPAs should review this guide proactively but will reference it most in these situations:

Before a major weather event – As a refresher on procedures if damage occurs to FA routes.
After a disaster – To document damages on FA routes.
Following a disaster declaration – When seeking FHWA reimbursement for FA route repairs.

NDOT provides an online portal for submitting event-related information. When an emergency occurs, NDOT activates the portal and notifies LPAs to submit damage details by FA route. The portal remains in use throughout the ER process for the submission of required information and materials.

Tips

Identify Your Federal-Aid Highway Routes: Create a list of the Federal-aid routes in your county or community, as damage to these routes may be eligible for funding under FHWA's ER program. Federal-aid highways typically include interstates, freeways, arterials, and major collector roads. Generally, rural minor collectors and local roads are not eligible.

Documenting Emergency Repair Costs: If you are performing emergency repairs to restore essential traffic, minimize damage, or protect remaining facilities, keep detailed records of all costs incurred. Be sure to take photos of the damaged area before beginning any repairs, as these will be essential when NDOT or the local agency seeks reimbursement under the ER program.

Training

Module 1: Be prepared and informed on resources available and comprehend Nebraska-specific guidance on the documentation process.

Module 2: Understand the importance of your role in diligent record keeping and comprehend reimbursement requirements following a declared disaster event.

Forms & Examples

In addition to the guide, we've also compiled various resources to support the ER program, including fillable forms, sample completed forms, and helpful links for navigating the ER program process.

Appendix A: Sample Governor's Proclamation

Appendix B: Sample State Letter of Intent

Appendix C: Sample FHWA Acknowledgment Letter

Appendix D: Sample ER Request Memorandum

Appendix E: Sample State Letter for Quick Release of ER Funds

Appendix F: Sample State Letter Requesting ER Funds

Appendix G: NDOT Record of Conversation Form

Appendix H: NDOT LPA Emergency Repair Decision Worksheet

Appendix I: FHWA 1273 Form

Appendix J: NDOT Right of Entry

Appendix K: NDOT Right of Way Certification for Emergency Relief Projects

Appendix L: NDOT LPA Encroachments Review Form