Youngkin creates Office of Hurricane Helene Recovery

RICHMOND, Va. (WJHL) — Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has established a new office within his administration dedicated to Hurricane Helene recovery.

On Thursday, Youngkin signed an executive directive creating the Office of Hurricane Helene Recovery and Rebuilding within the Office of the Governor.

'Bristol Bricks' LEGO store hosts grand opening

"In the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene affecting Southwest Virginia, it is imperative to create a dedicated office to support the coordination of long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts," Youngkin said in a release. "We know this is a long road, but with the incredible grit and resilience of the people and communities affected, in collaboration with local, state and federal partners, Southwest Virginia will rebuild stronger than ever."

The office will be led by Chief Transformation Officer Rob Ward and will be supported by existing Transformation Office and staff resources.

According to the governor's office, the establishment of the hurricane recovery office does not redirect resources from other agencies, but "formalizes the coordination and oversight of resources and activities out of the governor's office."

Five disaster recovery centers have opened in Southwest Virginia: in Damascus, Independence, Tazewell, Dublin, and Marion.