Rep. Bobby Scott presents Hampton with $1.38 million for flood projects

April 24, 2024 - U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott presented Hampton officials with $1,383,069 grant that will be used to help make the city more resilient during flooding.

The setting was the Briarfield Terrace neighborhood, which backs up to Newmarket Creek and has seen repeated flooding. Hampton has existing mitigation programs in the area --one house in the floodway was sold and a neighboring home has been elevated.

"This money will go toward purchasing property to eliminate those repetitive losses," Scott said. "We appreciate the good work of Hampton, making Hampton a more resilient place to live."

The acquisitions will be voluntary, with the city buying property as it comes up for sale by owners looking to sell. The city will be focusing on property in the floodplain, especially areas in the floodway itself.

Mayor Donnie Tuck noted that about 37,000 people live within the 100-year floodplain. Hampton's 124 miles of waterfront are part of our heritage and economy. They also leave us with flooding from the Chesapeake Bay, as well as rivers and creeks.

"Properties acquired through the program will be retained by the City in perpetuity with the protection of a conservation easement," City Manager Mary Bunting said. "Potential re-use of properties would be limited to open space and park activities, with the intent of restoring the natural function of the floodplain."

These are funds from the FY2024 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act.