North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue, toured the site of a massive rock slide that shut down I-40 in Haywood County, Tuesday.
She was accompanied by other state officials, and announced that she had signed an emergency declaration, the first step in seeking federal funds to help clear the slide and repair the interstate.
"Today I saw the rock slide firsthand," said Perdue. "Not since 1997 has western North Carolina seen a slide of this magnitude -- longer than a football field, and the width of a two-car garage."
"Western North Carolina is open for business and the leaf season is spectacular. So use our alternate routes during your visit and enjoy all western North Carolina has to offer."
The slide occurred early Sunday morning about three miles from the Tennessee state line. The DOT says the cleanup will take at least three months.
Perdue Seeks Emergency Relief for Rock Slide
Posted: Wednesday, October 28 2009, 10:37 AM CDT
