Chandler, Indiana — Residents of Chandler are continuing to grapple with the effects of mine subsidence that have impacted several homes since early March. The situation has raised significant concerns for homeowners and town officials alike, prompting immediate action from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to address the issue.
The DNR has initiated a multi-million-dollar project aimed at stabilizing the old mine voids that are believed to be causing the subsidence. Using a technique known as “core filling,” the department plans to fill the voids to prevent further damage and mitigate future risks. As part of the preparation for this project, DNR crews are conducting exploratory drilling in the affected areas to guide their stabilization efforts. The stabilization work is expected to begin later this summer, with an estimated completion time of nine months.
While the DNR’s efforts are a crucial step in addressing the mine subsidence, the town of Chandler has encountered a significant financial setback. Earlier this month, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the cancellation of $750 million in funding for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program. This grant program was intended to provide funding for projects like the one in Chandler. As a result, the town will not receive the anticipated federal support for stabilizing the mine voids, and FEMA has also halted funding for ongoing BRIC projects.
The cancellation of this funding comes as part of a broader reevaluation of FEMA’s grant programs and priorities, a process initiated under an Executive Order signed by President Donald Trump last month. The order shifts more responsibility for disaster preparedness onto state and local governments, reducing the role of federal funding in such initiatives.
In response to the loss of the BRIC funding, the Chandler Town Council expressed disappointment but reaffirmed their commitment to securing alternative sources of state and federal assistance. “While we are deeply disappointed by this outcome on the BRIC grant, we remain committed to pursuing all available avenues for state and federal assistance on behalf of every impacted resident,” the Council stated in a public statement.
The town is encouraging residents who are affected by the mine subsidence to reach out to Town Hall for further assistance and information regarding available resources. The situation remains fluid, and officials are hopeful that other forms of support will become available to help mitigate the challenges faced by the community.
As the stabilization project moves forward, residents and local officials will continue to work together to find solutions and ensure the long-term safety and stability of the area.
