Periodically, the Department of Homeland Security provides funding to FEMA to reissue the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and execute new detailed studies in selected areas. The FIRM is used by insurance brokers and housing lenders to determine the risk of flooding and to set the premium for flood insurance. New FIRM maps are being developed for Alachua County and surrounding communities. The Santa Fe Watershed Flood Risk Project covering most of the North and Northwestern portion of the County is available for public review. FEMA has started a public comment and appeals period that ends on April 30, 2023.
Four information meetings are being held on April 12, April 13, April 17, and April 18, 2023, at Alachua County Public Works Ready Room (5620 N.W. 120th Lane, Gainesville) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those wishing to appeal or comment about the FIRM maps can obtain information on how to do so at this meeting.
The adoption of the new Risk Map FIRM for the Santa Fe basin is not anticipated until the fall of 2023. Until the County Commission adopts them, the current FIRM, dated June 16, 2006, is still in effect (thus, it is important to maintain current insurance coverage).
For more information on how to appeal and comment on the FIRM maps, contact Alachua County Public Works at 352-374-5245 Ext. 1303.
