Governor DeSantis visits Madeira Beach, city still recovering from Hurricane Helene damage

MADERIA BEACH, Fla. - Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference at John's Pass Village in Madeira Beach on Wednesday morning.

John's Pass like much of the barrier islands was badly damaged by Hurricane Helene. Some homes were rendered uninhabitable. But, the governor said he's been impressed with the progress that's been made as businesses and homeowners work to rebuild Pinellas County.

Gov. DeSantis gives Helene update in Madeira Beach

Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference at John's Pass Village in Madeira Beach on Wednesday morning.

"The Division of Emergency Management as well as Volunteer Florida, are coordinating with volunteer organizations to offer free muck and gut services for residents in the area. So this will help clear the homes of debris and irreparable building materials like wet drywall and rotten wood," shared DeSantis.

Walmart also donated supplies to impacted residents.

READ: Clearwater father survives Hurricane Helene on roof, boat: 'Craziest night of my life'

"Florida Department of Transportation, they've removed 50,000 cubic yards of sand. You see all this sand that gets brought in with the storm surge. You still have some plies you see that's been put on the side," shared DeSantis.

According to the governor, sand that has been hauled off in Pinellas County will be stored and used for beach renourishment.

DeSantis said power has been restored to anyone that can safely receive it in Pinellas County. As of Wednesday morning, about 20,000 Floridians are still without power.

For residents who have insurance questions, there will be an Insurance Recovery Village at the Clearwater Parks and Recreation Center at 1501 North Belcher Road. The village will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: