Oregon City Receives FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant
FEMA Helps Fund Seismic Retrofit for Mountainview Reservoir
Release Date: August 3, 2004
Release Number: R10-04-129
SALEM, Ore. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a Pre-Disaster Mitigation Competitive (PDM-C) Program Grant of $682,500 for Oregon City, Oregon to help cover the cost of seismically retrofitting the Mountainview Reservoir. The grant represents the 75 percent federal share of a $910,000 project to strengthen the existing reservoir with a new 12-inch reinforced concrete wall. According to FEMA Regional Director John Pennington the project was especially compelling due to the increased protection extended to vital services: potable water, and water for emergency fire services.
“While this reservoir’s $7.5 million replacement cost argues for increased protection, the potential impact to the community from its failure is even more critical,” said Pennington. “Loss of water services, especially following an earthquake, can significantly disrupt the ability of firefighters to control earthquake-related fires, and negatively impact economic recovery.”
Oregon Emergency Management (OEM) Director Ken Murphy agrees. “Oregon City is a great example of community that has taken the time to understand the importance of mitigation,” said Murphy. “We are constantly reminded that actions taken by responsible officials before disaster strikes are as telling in saving lives and restoring a measure of normalcy as those of first-responders.”
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 03-Aug-2004 16:33:21