The U.S Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released $420,000 in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds to the City of Cuyahoga Falls in Summit County, Ohio, for the acquisition of five residential homes.

"This kind of project is the cornerstone of disaster prevention efforts and illustrates the importance of local, state and federal government working together for the benefit of citizens," said Edward G. Buikema, regional director, FEMA Region V.

The acquisition of the properties, which are repeatedly flooded after heavy rains due to a 111-acre watershed, will allow the land to remain open space. The restoration of the natural floodplain through acquisition and open space preservation allows flooding to occur without property damage.

This project will protect the health, safety and welfare of Summit County residents. Additionally, it will reduce future flood insurance claims and thereby reducing the financial obligation of federal, state and local governments.

Through HMGP, FEMA will pay 75 percent of the project costs and the City of Cuyahoga Falls will contribute the remaining 25 percent. The Ohio Emergency Management Agency administers the mitigation program.

FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

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