Vermonts governor said Tropical Storm Irene could cost the tiny state more than $1 billion

Gov Peter Shumlin said that the state is still calculating the damage from the Aug 28 storm He pleaded with the federal government for help as he announced state financial assistance for towns struggling to make repairs

The package includes $24 million in accelerated state payments to help cash-strapped towns, including $62 million in town highway funds released this week rather than next month

Officials said local banks also are stepping in, providing short-term low collateral loans while the Vermont Municipal Bond Band will provide funding if banks need it

Shumlin said a top priority will be to get as much of a federal match as possible for infrastructure repairs once the state knows the extent of the damage

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