State Representative K.C. Tomlinson  (R-Bucks) announced on Wednesday that she has secured funds to help defray costs caused by July flash flooding that devastated Bensalem Township.

The damages of the July 12 storm will be something that I will never forget. While Bensalem was pummeled with constant rain, Bensalem’s leadership team, along with its first responders, worked tirelessly to save lives, Tomlinson said.

“While many of us were safe in our homes, our first responders were conducting water rescues along Bristol Pike, and the township public works department worked continuously to clean up after the storm,”

The money was distributed  to Bensalem Township through the state Department of Community and Economic Development in the form of a check for $535,000.00 on Tuesday.

These funds will be used to offset township expenses and to repair infrastructure including inlet boxes, drainage pipes and storm sewer pipes. It will also be used for tree removal, to reduce sediment build up and cover other emergency services costs, the state representative said.

“I have lived in Bensalem my whole life and I have never seen a storm such as the one that occurred on July 12,” said Mayor Joe DiGiorolamo (R).

“Bensalem received nearly 10 inches of rain in less than three hours; the aftermath of that storm was truly devastating. Even more devastating than the damage, were the stories from residents that were left behind by insurance companies and government agencies.”

Tomlinson hoped all the costs would be reimbursed by a State of Emergency declaration, but she was disappointed to learn that this would not be the case.

“We were informed there wasn’t enough damage incurred by the residents and the township,” Tomlinson said. “This was completely and utterly unacceptable. I am proud to work with my team in the district and in Harrisburg to announce that this money is coming back to Bensalem. I know this money will go a long way in making sure that the residents of Bensalem will always have a safe community to call home.”

According to township officials, over 1100 properties were damaged due to the July storm that dropped about 10 inches of rain throughout Lower Bucks County.