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Pinellas County is taking proactive steps to address flooding risks with the development of a comprehensive Flood Mitigation Action Plan (FMAP). This initiative aims to bolster the county’s resilience against the increasing impacts of flooding, which is critical given the area’s vulnerability to storm surges and rising sea levels.
The FMAP will focus on five key watersheds in low-to-moderate income areas, including Anclote River, Curlew Creek, McKay Creek, Joe’s Creek, and the Southern Barrier Islands. By collecting precise data on groundwater, rainfall patterns, and tidal events, the county aims to enhance its understanding of flood risks. This data will not only help in modeling future flood scenarios but also serve as a tool for educating residents about their local flood risks and the importance of flood insurance.
Funded by a $992,000 grant from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, the project emphasizes community involvement. Pinellas County is actively seeking feedback from residents, city officials, and local businesses to ensure that the strategies developed reflect the needs and concerns of the community. This collaborative approach is designed to create solutions that are both effective and relevant to those who live and work in the affected areas.
As part of the FMAP, the county will also utilize advanced technologies such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to gather detailed, three-dimensional data about surface characteristics. This innovative method will aid in identifying elevations and potential flood risks more accurately.
The final stages of the plan will include a cost-benefit analysis and an Implementation Roadmap, outlining key projects and strategies to reduce flood risks effectively. A countywide summary of the project will be made available, along with proposals for incorporating new policies into local regulations.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and involved in this vital initiative. For those who wish to provide input or have concerns regarding the FMAP, they can reach out to Sue Leverette, the FMAP Project Manager, via email at sleverette@pinellas.gov or by phone at (727) 464-4769. Engaging with this project is an excellent way for the community to contribute to making Pinellas County safer and more resilient against flooding.
References
Flood Mitigation Action Plan – Pinellas County. (n.d.). Pinellas County. https://pinellas.gov/projects/fmap/