U.S. Representative Val Demings announced Orange County, Florida, will receive $7.5 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency. This funding, which is part of Hurricane Irma recovery efforts, will cover 75% of the $10 million project and will reduce future storm-related flooding and damage in Central Florida.
This FEMA grant will fund Orange County’s proposal for drainage improvements to the Orlo Vista Neighborhood, in Orlando, Florida, 32811. The proposed improvements include excavation in three existing ponds to increase depth and capacity, along with construction of a new pump station at southeast slope of western pond.
“I am glad to announce this new grant in our community which will help keep Floridians safe when big storms come,” said Rep. Demings. “Hurricanes are a part of life here in the Sunshine State and it’s our job to prepare. I will continue working to keep us safe with important infrastructure upgrades and will also keep working to reduce the effects of climate change which is making storms bigger and deadlier. Keeping Floridians safe will always be my top priority.”
Rep. Demings chairs the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Disaster Preparedness, Response, and Recovery, which oversees FEMA.
