The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced on Apr. 8 its final decision to provide federal financial assistance for the Meade Lane Drainage Improvement Project in Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona. The funding will be provided through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to help reduce flood hazards by improving existing drainage infrastructure.
The project aims to address recurring flooding that threatens local infrastructure and nearby homes. FEMA said the improvements are necessary because the current drain system is often overwhelmed during regular rain events, leading to flooding in down gradient residential areas.
Planned work includes replacing a 12-inch corrugated metal pipe storm drain with a new system composed of larger segments, building nine new catch basins within existing curbs and gutters, installing associated pipes and manholes, and modifying the outfall structure. Before construction begins, geotechnical boring will be conducted to assess soil conditions. According to FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Map Panel 04005C6809G, the project area lies within Zone X—an area of minimal flood hazard—but borders a riverine habitat and Zone AE Floodway.
Two alternatives were considered: taking no action or increasing pipe size for rare storm events. FEMA did not recommend these options due to ongoing flooding risks or increased costs with limited benefits. Instead, FEMA determined that moving forward with the proposed improvements is “the only practicable alternative available.” The agency also stated that best management practices such as erosion control measures would be used during construction and confirmed that base flood elevations at the outfall would not change.
Flagstaff operates under an elected mayor and council members who set policy for city operations according to its official website. The city delivers community services through various departments while encouraging public involvement via boards and commissions according to its official website. In addition, Flagstaff has adopted policies over several decades related to outdoor lighting management—including zoning codes established in 1989 limiting lighting per acre and an ordinance from 1958 addressing outdoor lighting issues according to its official website.
Members of the public may request additional information about this project by contacting FEMA Region 9 Environmental Officer within fifteen days of publication.
