During the recent Overland Park City Council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the Riva Ridge project and its vulnerability to flooding. Council members discussed how floodwaters in the area frequently exceed FEMA's designated hundred-year flood lines, which were established back in February 2009.
The council highlighted that these flood maps are now considered "actuarially unsound" by FEMA, indicating that they are not reliable for current assessments. This unreliability is compounded by FEMA's federal mandate, which requires flood maps to be reviewed or updated every five years.
The implications of these outdated flood maps are critical for the community, as they may not accurately reflect the current flood risks faced by residents. The council's discussions underscore the urgent need for updated assessments to ensure public safety and effective planning for future developments in the area. As the city moves forward, addressing these flood risk concerns will be essential for protecting the community and enhancing resilience against potential flooding events.