Floodplain Management Plan Study

In many communities, flood protection decisions are often made hastily and based on outdated or insufficient information. This study aims to provide a comprehensive, community-wide approach for allocating resources and identifying effective measures to reduce the impacts of flooding.

The plan may be credited toward the city’s Community Rating System (CRS), which provides a reduction of flood insurance costs for city residents and business owners.

Citywide

The federal grant has local cost share component, which is 84 percent federal and 16 percent local (city) match. $126,000 Federal grant and $24,000 City of Orlando match.

Why did we apply for the grant?
The city is proactively seeking for strategy to assess and mitigate flooding due to the aging public infrastructures and projections of rainfall intensity and other impacts of climate change.

What areas will be assessed under the Floodplain Management Plan Study?
The Watershed Management Plan will assess the Howell Branch watershed, which is comprised of 18 drainage sub-basins totaling approximately 4,894 acres.

Will the watershed study impact insurance rates in our neighborhood?
This watershed study is part of the city's efforts to improve its Community Rating System (CRS) score with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). A higher CRS rating can lead to lower flood insurance premiums for residents in the community. By identifying and addressing flood risks more accurately, the city aims to enhance local flood management strategies, which can positively influence insurance rates. The actual impact on insurance premiums will depend on several factors, however, including findings of the study and subsequent actions taken by the city and FEMA.

Will the watershed study involve any changes to existing drainage systems or infrastructure in our neighborhood?
The study provides insight to flood risk throughout the community and will point to specific strategies and targeted remedies including future infrastructure improvements and initiatives.

How can residents contribute to the watershed study and stay informed about its progress?
An Open House will be held June 4, 2024, at the College Park Neighborhood Center from 6 to 8 p.m. Consultants and city staff will be present to explain the study and invite community feedback regarding incidents of flooding they may have experienced. They will also seek suggestions on mitigating future flooding. 

In late summer or early fall of 2024, there will be a public meeting to share the study findings, suggest mitigation strategies, and seek public comment. Meeting schedules will be posted on this webpage and Nextdoor.com. Additionally, neighborhood association leaders will share meeting information with community residents. You may send your email address to Lauri Brooks at lauri.brooks@orlando.gov if you would like to receive notice of the meetings emailed to you.