Hendersonville, Tennessee – Nearly two weeks have passed since a tornado swept through Hendersonville, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The community has been tirelessly working to clean up the aftermath, with hundreds of buildings reported as destroyed. Amid this challenging time, the efforts of the Public Works crews have been crucial in the recovery process.
Trace Buerkett, the Assistant Public Works Director of Hendersonville, played a crucial role in these efforts. Despite sustaining an injury just days before the tornado, Buerkett was on the front lines, aiding the community with unwavering dedication. “We’re kind of like first responders. We got to cut all the trees out of the roadways. It’s about the safety first,” he explained, highlighting the critical nature of their work.
Buerkett’s commitment was evident as he continued to assist the cleanup operations, even with one arm around a crutch. His perseverance underscores the often-underappreciated magnitude of responsibilities that Public Works crews handle. Buerkett noted that the community’s gratitude, expressed through simple thank-yous, makes their demanding job rewarding. “I had a crew just straightening signs the last week because our signs are gone. It is rewarding when you get those thank you’s and gratitude from a lot of people,” he said.
The cleanup process is nearing completion, with Buerkett mentioning that only a few piles of brush and debris remain. The Public Works department anticipates returning to its regular duties next week, marking a significant milestone in the community’s recovery journey.
In this time of need, Hendersonville’s Public Works department received substantial support from neighboring cities, including Murfreesboro, Smyrna, Lebanon, and others. This collaboration highlights the spirit of community and solidarity in times of crisis.
Additionally, residents affected by the storm have a beacon of hope, as they may qualify for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This support is crucial for many in the community, aiding in their path to rebuilding and recovery.
