Title
Floodplain Management Section Overview and Update - Citywide
Description
This report provides the Transportation, Innovation, and Infrastructure Subcommittee with an overview of the functions and responsibilities of the Floodplain Management section within the Office of the City Engineer, which oversees the Community Rating System (CRS) program, enforces floodplain regulations, and implements flood mitigation programs.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
The City of Phoenix (City) participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and has been designated as a Class 5 community. As part of the NFIP, the City has implemented a Floodplain Management Ordinance, which includes the mapping and rating of Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) within the City. Maintaining the City's CRS rating reduces insurance premium rates for residents and businesses located within SFHA area by 25%.
FEMA defines a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) as regions at risk of flooding, with a one percent (100-year) chance of flooding occurring in any given year. This area is subject to floodplain management regulations, and the NFIP requires mandatory flood insurance. Floodplain Management reviews and approves over 2,000 projects each year within the SFHA.
The Floodplain Management section oversees several flood mitigation programs to address local flooding concerns raised by city residents and regional flooding identified in the Area Drainage Master Study.
Financial Impact
Floodplain mitigation projects are primarily funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), General Obligation Bonds (Go-Bond), federal grants, and partnerships with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Amber Williamson and the City Engineer.