The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced on Mar. 20 its intention to provide financial assistance to the City of Flagstaff for a drainage improvement project aimed at reducing flood hazards in a residential area. The funding would come through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and is intended to upgrade existing drainage infrastructure.
The proposed improvements are designed to address flooding by increasing the size of drain pipes, installing new catch basins, and modifying the outfall system to redirect stormwater away from roads and into a nearby ephemeral watercourse. FEMA said these actions are in accordance with federal regulations regarding floodplain management and wetland protection.
According to FEMA, the project will involve replacing a 12-inch corrugated metal pipe with larger segments measuring 48 inches and 42 inches, constructing nine new catch basins within current curbs and gutters, installing 165 feet of lateral pipes, modifying the outfall as needed, and adding several new sewer and storm drain manholes. The affected area is shown on FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Map as being within Zone X, which is considered an area of minimal flood hazard. However, the outfall borders Zone AE Floodway, which includes riverine habitat adjacent to the project site.
City of Flagstaff received designation as the world’s first International Dark Sky City in 2001, according to the official website. The city delivers community services through various departments while encouraging public involvement via boards, commissions, and elections according to its official website. Policy guidance comes from an elected mayor and council members according to the official website.
Flagstaff has also taken steps over decades to manage outdoor lighting issues. Zoning codes adopted in 1989 limit outdoor lighting per acre according to the official website, following an ordinance enacted in 1958 for similar purposes according to the official website.
Additional information about FEMA’s proposed action can be obtained by contacting FEMA Region 9 Environmental Officer at their Oakland office or via email. Requests should be submitted within 15 days after publication of this notice.
