GREATER NEW HAVEN WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

PUBLIC NOTICE

November 13, 2024

Pursuant to Executive Order 11988 (Floodplain Management) and Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) implementing regulations at Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 9, FEMA hereby provides final notice of its decision to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding for an action located in a floodplain. Funding would be provided through CT Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security to the Greater New Haven Water Pollution Control Authority to mitigate flood and power loss hazards at the Morris Cove Pump Station.

The action is located on Morris Causeway in New Haven Connecticut. A 160-foot-long floodwall would be constructed through the paved parking area, and flood barriers would be installed at exposed building and chamber openings. Mechanical and electrical equipment on the property would be elevated. The existing 1,000-gallon diesel fuel tank for the onsite emergency generator would be replaced with a 3,300-gallon tank.

The project is within a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area. The proposed action is expected to significantly reduce the risk of damage to the structure from flooding. The affected area primarily consists of paved surfaces and a maintained grass lawn, and no direct or indirect adverse impacts to the beneficial functions of the floodplain are anticipated. A map of the area of available upon request.

The project must in be in a floodplain because the gravity-fed pump station depends on being located in a low-lying area to function. Elevation of the structure was considered and dismissed due to financial impracticability and the practical challenges of maintaining service during construction. A larger flood wall around the entire property was considered and dismissed due to the financial impracticability and the potential adverse impacts to the beneficial functions of the floodplain. The “No Action” alternative was considered and dismissed because it fails to reduce the flood hazard to the region’s wastewater system. Grant conditions will require compliance with all federal, state and local laws, including coordination with the local floodplain administrator.

Map requests and comments about this project and potential floodplain impacts should be submitted within 15 days of the date of this publication to:

Alexander Miller

Federal Emergency Management Agency, Boston, MA

Alexander.Miller@fema.dhs.gov; (202) 746-6856