RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) – Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the establishment of the Office of Hurricane Helene Recovery and Rebuilding on Thursday, following the destruction left behind from Hurricane Helene.

The newly established office, or Executive Directive 9, will be within the Office of the Governor in order to coordinate and lead recovery and rebuilding efforts in southwest Virginia.

“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. “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.”

According to a release, Youngkin appointed Chief Transformation Officer Rob Ward to lead the office.

The office is not expected to redirect the administration of resources from any agency, and will phase out after one year, unless extended.

For more information on the office, click here.