PHOENIX (July 26, 2017) – Good news for some District 2, Mesa residents that will benefit from a Flood Control District (FCD) of Maricopa County program that fast-tracks local flood control and drainage projects. Today, through the Small Project Assistance Program (SPAP), the Board of Supervisors approved four small flood control projects submitted by the City of Mesa earlier this year. The projects will all be completed by June 30, 2018.
Projects will include the construction of several wall openings and a drainage ditch enlargement to storm drains with inlets and increased capacity of an existing detention basin. This will help reduce flood risk for 13 residential properties and help prevent roadway or access closures in the area.
"The Small Project Assistance Program gives us the opportunity to help fund and, effectively and efficiently, resolve neighborhood flooding problems," said Supervisor Steve Chucri, District 2.
Under SPAP, the District provides the lead municipality with 75 percent of the construction costs, up to $250,000. The municipality is responsible for the remaining funding, as well as, all aspects of design, right-of-way acquisition, utilities relocation, construction management and other logistical work including post-construction maintenance. The District is able to help municipalities with projects that address small-scale flooding that directly affect residential or commercial properties in Maricopa County and can be fixed by a simple solution with minimal administrative delay.
"The welfare and safety of our residents is always our top priority," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "The Flood District’s SPAP initiative helps us solve localized flooding and better protect our citizens from storm and property damage."
Since the Small Project Assistance Program was launched in 2009, the District has approved $8.77 million of funding for 49 projects that were submitted and qualified for program funding. Cities that have benefited from the program include Avondale, Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, Wickenburg and Gilbert.
"One of the goals for the Flood Control District is to reduce the risk of loss of life or property due to stormwater flooding," explained Bill Wiley, FCD Chief Engineer and General Manager. "The Small Project Assistance Program helps us to fund more projects to reach that goal."
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The Flood Control District of Maricopa County reduces risk from flooding so that property damage and loss of life is minimized, economic development is supported in a safe and responsible manner and stormwater is recognized as a resource for the long-term benefit of the community and environment. Learn more at FCD.Maricopa.gov.
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