North Tidewater News

U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott recently handed over a $1,383,069 grant to Hampton officials aimed at bolstering the city's resilience against flooding. The grant is intended to assist in purchasing properties in flood-prone areas to mitigate repetitive losses. Scott expressed his gratitude towards Hampton for their efforts in enhancing the city's resilience, stating, "We appreciate the good work of Hampton, making Hampton a more resilient place to live."

The city of Hampton plans to acquire properties voluntarily as they become available for sale in flood-prone regions, with a particular focus on areas within the floodplain and floodway. Mayor Donnie Tuck highlighted the significance of addressing flooding issues in a city where approximately 37,000 individuals reside within the 100-year floodplain, emphasizing the importance of Hampton's waterfront areas to its heritage and economy.

City Manager Mary Bunting outlined that the acquired properties will be safeguarded by a conservation easement in perpetuity, restricting their future use to open space and park activities to restore the natural function of the floodplain. The funds for this initiative stem from the FY2024 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act.