State lawmakers concerned about the effects of rising seas on the Tidewater region and recurrent flooding elsewhere across Virginia have rolled out a package of policy recommendations to begin tackling the problem.
The proposals aim to improve comprehensive planning efforts, standardize the state’s flood-zone maps, and better protect property-owners.
One idea is to create a state flooding resiliency fund for low-interest loans to help elevate or flood-proof homes or businesses. Delegate Keith Hodges proposed crafting a plan to manage the aquifer system where groundwater is over-pumped.
“That is a contributing factor to land subsidence, so the ground is actually sinking, which contributes to recurrent flooding.”
Virginia Association of Realtors CEO Terry Suit said lenders should proactively disclose flood risks to property-buyers.
“Rather than putting a seller in a position where they erroneously and without fault give bad information, let’s go to the experts and make sure buyers get the right information.”
The proposals also include designating a state resiliency officer and regional planning and coordination.
Lawmakers also recommended asking VDOT to inventory the roadside drainer-ditch infrastructure — known as outfall ditches—which are often clogged with debris and overflowing.
