Contact: Amy Hasenberg, (608) 266-2839
MADISON – Governor Scott Walker today declared a State of Emergency for the City of Sun Prairie and Dane County due to the explosion that destroyed portions of downtown Sun Prairie. The executive order directs state agencies to continue to provide aid to the community and its citizens as they recover following last week’s devastating fire.
“My thoughts and prayers continue with the people of Sun Prairie. This declaration will ensure state agencies provide whatever assistance is needed to help the community rebuild and to help families impacted recover. Together we are all part of #SunPrairieStrong,” said Governor Walker.
On July 10, 2018, a contractor cut into a pipe that was carrying natural gas underneath downtown Sun Prairie. An explosion leveled a city block, killing Sun Prairie volunteer firefighter Captain Cory Barr. Several people lost their homes and dozens of businesses were impacted by the Sun Prairie explosion.
Several state agencies have been working with the City of Sun Prairie and Dane County since the explosion. Wisconsin Department of Transportation will quickly begin repairing damaged roads once the investigation is over and debris has been removed. Several other agencies are looking at financial assistance to help the city rebuild the downtown and to possibly provide aid to citizens that may have been impacted.
Governor Walker has also been working with federal agencies to see if there are programs that could also provide assistance to Sun Prairie.
Governor Walker’s executive order is here.
