Asheville, September 28, 2025
News Summary
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Robert H. Frank II, a University of Kentucky alum, spearheaded environmental recovery initiatives in Asheville. His team quickly constructed a temporary water pre-treatment system, crucial for restoring clean water access to over 100,000 residents. The project, completed in just 23 days, underscored the importance of resourcefulness and teamwork in tackling ecological challenges, showing a commitment to community well-being following the hurricane’s devastation.
Asheville – Robert H. Frank II, a University of Kentucky alum, played a pivotal role in leading environmental recovery efforts in Asheville following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Helene. The hurricane struck North Carolina on September 27, 2024, leading to over 100 reported deaths and leaving thousands without essential services such as power and clean water.
Frank, who graduated in 1999 with a degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Science, currently serves as a senior project manager at CDM Smith. With over 25 years of experience in managing construction and environmental remediation projects, he underscored the critical importance of clean air, food, water, and shelter for maintaining a healthy life.
His team was dispatched to Asheville on November 11, 2024, to address the aftermath of the hurricane. One of the central projects undertaken involved designing and constructing a water pre-treatment system for the North Fork Water Treatment Plant, which is critical to the city’s water supply, serving over 100,000 residents.
The temporary pretreatment system, supported by a $39.2 million contract with the US Army Corps of Engineers, was completed in just 23 days. Frank’s team operated around the clock to assemble and optimize the system using rented equipment, significantly enhancing the water filtration capacity of Asheville’s largest water treatment plant.
This effort not only provided immediate improvements in water quality but also bolstered the resilience of the city against future adverse events. Frank expressed that this project’s swift completion demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resourcefulness among his personnel.
Reflecting on these accomplishments, Frank highlighted the strong emotional connection his team felt with the local community. His educational background at the University of Kentucky was instrumental in equipping him with the skills necessary to handle hazardous materials and work efficiently in environmental remediation and construction.
Frank emphasized the broader significance of improving usability for contaminated land, which ultimately serves to enhance community well-being. The new treatment system represents a substantial advancement in ensuring reliable access to clean water, significantly reducing the impacts of ecological disasters like Hurricane Helene.
For those interested in pursuing a career in environmental science, further information on the Natural Resources and Environmental Science program at the University of Kentucky is available on their official site.
FAQ
What was Hurricane Helene’s impact on Asheville?
Hurricane Helene struck Asheville on September 27, 2024, causing over 100 reported deaths and leaving thousands without access to power, clean water, transportation, and communication.
What role did Robert H. Frank II play in the recovery?
Robert H. Frank II led a team at CDM Smith to design and construct a temporary water pre-treatment system to restore clean water access to Asheville residents after the hurricane.
How quickly was the water treatment system completed?
The water pre-treatment system was completed in just 23 days, showcasing the team’s diligent efforts and collaboration.
What was the financial aspect of the recovery project?
A contract worth $39.2 million was established with the US Army Corps of Engineers to operate the temporary water pretreatment system.
Key Features of the Post
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hurricane Helene | Struck North Carolina on September 27, 2024, causing significant damage and loss of life. |
| Robert H. Frank II | University of Kentucky alum and senior project manager at CDM Smith, leading recovery efforts. |
| Water Pre-treatment System | Constructed to improve filtration capacity for Asheville’s water supply, benefiting over 100,000 residents. |
| Timeline | The system was completed in just 23 days post-deployment. |
| Financial Support | $39.2 million contract with the US Army Corps of Engineers. |
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Additional Resources
- The News Enterprise
- WKYT
- New York Post
- Google Search: Hurricane Helene
- Kentucky.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
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