Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall, who have worked to support Colorado communities grappling with major flooding along the Front Range, welcomed the news today that the U.S. Department of Transportation has agreed to send the state $5 million in emergency funds. The $5 million will be used to make immediate emergency repairs to help reopen roads and highways.

"Flooding over the past several days has wiped out many of Colorado's roads and bridges, and it is going to take a lot of time and resources to repair the damage," Bennet said. "We are glad this funding is making its way to Colorado quickly so that construction crews can get people moving again."

"These emergency highway funds will provide immediate relief for first responders and others who rely on Colorado's road and highways damaged by the ongoing floods. I am glad the U.S. Department of Transportation responded so swiftly to Colorado's needs," Udall said. "I will keep fighting to ensure that Colorado communities have every federal resource they need to protect lives, safeguard communities, and rebuild during and after these tragic floods."

The funds, issued by the Federal Highway Administration as so-called "Quick Relief" emergency funds, will help Colorado quickly repair and reopen essential roads and thoroughfares. Colorado will be eligible for additional U.S. Department of Transportation assistance once state officials tally the extent of the flood damage.

Bennet and Udall have been vocal proponents of ensuring that Colorado has the federal tools it needs to confront and recover from the tragic flooding that has threatened entire communities along the Front Range and in the foothills.