NEW ORLEANS – The Federal Emergency Management Agency recently announced more than $1 million in funding to the state of Louisiana to improve the Golden Meadow floodwall in Lafourche Parish.
“The floodwall, which runs along the west bank of Bayou Lafourche, has existed for 30 years with the purpose of protecting nearby homes and properties by reducing their chances of incurring bayou waters during storms,” said FEMA’s Louisiana Recovery Office Deputy Director of Programs Andre Cadogan. “Over time and given the recent storms in the area, the floodwall has subsided, and FEMA’s grant will help strengthen it.”
Specifically, FEMA’s grant for the current Lafourche Parish drainage project consists of installing 1,500 feet of vinyl sheet pile and replacing soil around the wall to prevent further erosion. Once finished, the floodwall will stand higher than before.
This funding was provided through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which helps communities prepare for future disasters by providing grants to implement long-term solutions for preparedness and protection against property damage and loss of life.
While other project alternatives were considered, including acquisition and elevations of nearby homes protected by the floodwall, these FEMA-funded improvements were deemed to be the most cost effective mitigation measures.
This project is expected to be completed in three years.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.