North Tidewater News

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced its intent to provide federal funding through the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) to the City of Portsmouth. This funding is part of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Grant Program, which aims to support hazard mitigation projects that reduce risks from disasters and natural hazards.

This initiative aligns with Executive Orders 11988 on Floodplain Management and 11990 on Protection of Wetlands, as well as 44 CFR Part 9 regulations. The proposed project seeks to enhance Lake Meade Dam's stability through spillway rehabilitation, embankment, and abutment improvements.

Lake Meade Dam is situated between Lake Meade and the Nansemond River in Suffolk, Virginia. The current notice pertains solely to Phase I, focusing on design and planning activities. Additional reviews will be necessary for any construction work in Phase II. The scope includes procurement; analysis; engineering; design activities; and geotechnical soil test borings comprising a total of 35 borings—19 in water and 16 on land.

Given that this action occurs within a Special Flood Hazard Area and federally designated wetlands, FEMA must explore opportunities to relocate the facility out of flood-prone areas or minimize potential flooding damage under Executive Order 11988. Public comments are invited regarding alternatives or methods for protecting the facility.

Comments should be submitted in writing either by mail to FEMA Internal 11988 Reviewer at their Philadelphia office or via email with the specified subject line. All submissions must be received within 15 days from the date of this notice posting. If no significant questions or concerns arise during this period, this announcement will serve as the final public notice.