Elevating on the Myakka -
A Tale of Two Elevations

Sarasota, FL – In July 2003 summer rains in Sarasota County once again swelled the Myakka River beyond its bank, this time flooding 41 homes for 30 days. While many cleaned up the muddy mess and made repairs as they had in the past, two of the homeowners sought to end the irritations and damages of frequent flooding by raising their houses above possible future floodwaters.

Sarasota County wanted to help the homeowners with the cost of elevating by applying for Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grants on behalf of the homeowner. These grants fund planning or construction projects to reduce or eliminate property damages and flood- insurance claims. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the grant through Florida’s Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

After extensive review, the state and FEMA hazard mitigation officials approved Sarasota County’s application for $55,275 in reimbursable expenses. The homeowners agreed to pay the 25-percent-matching-grant requirement and any costs above those included in the approved application.

The estimated the total project cost is $110,000 and construction took less than six months from start to occupancy.

The two families have drastically cut their chances of flooding since floodplain managers for Sarasota County agree that there is less than a one-percent chance of the Myakka flooding to 2003 levels again.

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