Congressman Visclosky announced the release of a Letter of Map Revision from the Federal Emergency Management Agency which affects the areas of Hammond and Munster currently within the floodplain as requested.
The LOMR revises the Flood Insurance Study Report and Flood Insurance Rate Map for the affected local communities, providing additional flood protection and reducing the obligation of flood insurance within the designated area. Substantial investments made through the Little Calumet River Flood Control and Recreation Project have improved the area’s flood management capabilities, which led to the request for a LOMR.
“ We on the Munster Town Council are very happy and pleased that the efforts of so many have contributed to the removal of 1,672 structures from the Flood Hazard Zone in Munster. This was a joint effort with Congressman Pete Visclosky, City of Hammond, Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission, the Indiana State Legislature, and our residents to bring us to this successful outcome ,” Munster Town Council President David Nellans said.
“ The LOMR allows Hammond and Munster residents to save money ,” said Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission Executive Director Dan Repay . “ We should always be cautious with Mother Nature, but lowering the flood risk of local homes means lowering the insurance obligations every family is faced with. I thank Congressman Visclosky and all of the local leaders involved for making this happen .”
Congressman Visclosky added, “I am pleased to see this decision from FEMA, which shows that our cooperative efforts on the Little Calumet River Flood Control and Recreation Project are paying off. Our ability to manage heavy rains is stronger. Our residents’ flood insurance obligations are lower. And our quality of life is higher. I will continue to work with local officials and residents in Lake County and throughout Northwest Indiana to improve our flood management capabilities .”
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Press Release, November 5, 2012; Image: fws.gov