FEMA approves La Vergne for Phase I of Hazard Mitigation Grant

FEMA has selected the City of La Vergne as a recipient of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).

FEMA has approved the City’s project for Phase I activities in the amount of $257,040. The grant is a 75-25 match, which means the federal program will cover $192,780 and the city will pay the remaining $64,260. Once Phase I is complete FEMA will review documentation to ensure the project is eligible, feasible and cost-effective among other criteria before approving Phase II for construction.

With the funds, the city plans to build a new multi-functional facility. The main function of the building will be for use in the event of an emergency, severe weather or other event that would require a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration. The facility will also be utilized for community meetings and activities. As part of the application process staff has chosen for the new facility to be located in the field directly behind the La Vergne Senior Center at 337 Stones River Road.

“This storm safe building will make a huge impact in keeping our citizens safe,” says Fire Chief Chris Clark. “Many of our citizens have nowhere to go when there are impending tornadoes. This building will provide a safe haven for them during these storm warnings. We are grateful to receive a grant to make this possible.”

As part of Phase I, the city will have to update the benefit cost analysis for the overall project, provide a detailed budget for construction cost estimates, a draft operation and maintenance plan, ADA compliant safe room plans, and various construction documents.

“The city and the citizens love the partnerships between the state and federal government and appreciate their assistance in helping us to provide more safety options to our residents in the event of severe weather or other disasters,” says Mayor Jason Cole.

There is currently no time frame on when Phase I of the grant program will be complete or how long it will take to complete the building once Phase II gets underway.

FEMA offers a variety of disaster assistance programs. The HMGP provides funds to states, tribes and local communities after a disaster declaration. It also supports risk reduction activities, eliminates the impact of future events, provides a long-term solution to problems, offers a cost-effective solution and helps avoid repetitive damage from disaster.