Congressman Jim Himes has secured $300,000 in federal funding to have the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers perform a feasibility study to examine flood damage reduction, shore protection and bank stabilization in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
The study will include coastal areas that were affected by Storms Sandy and Irene and neighborhoods susceptible to flooding for years.
According to Congressman Himes’ office, the $300,000 is the first installment of the federal government’s share of financing for the feasibility study, which will encompass both Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Congressman Himes said, “ This Army Corps of Engineers study is a critical first step toward a long-term action plan to address the dangerous and costly flooding that has plagued Fairfield County for generations. I fought hard for this funding because we must take concrete steps to protect families, homes and businesses from the next Sandy or Irene, as well as the persistent flooding that affects our communities. ”
Fairfield’s Department of Public Works Director Joe Michelangelo said, “ This should help further develop some of the concepts the Town has been considering and will complement and parallel our efforts. The study may help us work towards our ultimate goal of making our town safer and more storm-resilient.”
Following three public meetings on this Plan, the Flood and Erosion Control Board will consider the input received and report back to the Board of Selectmen to further develop this plan.