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County of Mathews HMGP Flood Relief Assistance
Overview
Surrounded by water on three sides, the County of Mathews has a long history of battling flooding. This project focused on the elevation or acquisition of properties damaged by flooding in the November 2009 Nor'easter storm. Emphasis was placed on reducing the potential for loss of life and property damage from flooding, as well as the creation of additional green space within the county. Project work tasks included performing benefit-cost analyses and providing application assistance. In addition, his project is ongoing, and future project management will include overseeing all contractors and firms performing construction or demolition work.
Approach
Community Planning Partners assisted the County in applying for hazard mitigation assistance funds through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (FEMA's HGMP). The firm worked with community stakeholders and the County to identify homes in the County that had been damaged by flooding and inform local citizens of flood mitigation opportunities. A benefit-cost analysis was performed to prioritize funding for the project based upon the risk level for each property. The project will result in the elevation of nine homes out of the floodplain and the acquisition of one property. Acquired property will be returned to its natural state and will be utilized as recreational open space. This project will remove residents from flood hazard areas, resulting in enhanced public safety for the community as well as improving Mathews County's Community Rating System score, which will lower insurance rates for homeowners throughout the County.
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