WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is awarding $19,627,299.68 in federal funding to the state of Louisiana to acquire and elevate dozens of flood-prone structures across south Louisiana.
“Our communities in south Louisiana have been battered by several storms recently, forcing many residents and businesses to rebuild,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding helps families escape a cycle of repetitive flooding and ensures flood insurance premiums are stabilized as claims decrease.”
Projects receiving funding include:
- $9,529,110.94 to acquire 25 properties and elevate 19 structures in East Baton Rouge Parish. Once obtained, the structures will be demolished and the properties turned into open space in perpetuity. All homeowners are voluntarily participating in this project. The elevated properties will be raised to at least one foot above the current base flood elevation (BFE) with the goal to reduce the number of flood claim payouts through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
- $3,342,950.10 to raise 24 structures in Slidell located within the Special Flood Hazard Area. This project will elevate the properties to the advisory BFE or one foot above the BFE, whichever is higher. Project details include general administration, coordination with homeowners and contractors, pre-construction activities, structure elevations, reporting, inspections, and property closeout.
- $2,941,068.39 to elevate nine structures and acquire six properties in Calcasieu Parish. All homeowners are voluntarily participating in this project, which will help prevent future flood loss and NFIP payments as well as the need for emergency and medical response during flood events.
- $2,399,735.89 to raise 11 properties and acquire two structures in Vermillion Parish. This project will elevate the properties to the advisory BFE or one foot above the BFE, whichever is higher, in accordance with the American Society of Civil Engineers 24-14 standards. The structures obtained will be deed restricted for green open space in perpetuity. This project will reduce the future risk to flood-prone properties and homeowners.
- $1,414,434.36 to pay for the mitigation reconstruction of nine structures in Jefferson Parish. The mitigation of these homes will decrease NFIP claim payments as well as the need for emergency response during flood events. The properties will be removed from harm’s way once the homes are rebuilt.
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