WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) today reported that more than $13.2 million in federal hazard mitigation funding has been approved to carry out two projects to better protect Mississippi Coast residents during weather emergencies.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved two grant applications submitted by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency on behalf of the Harrison County School District for a wind retrofit project and the City of Waveland for drainage improvements.

Through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, FEMA is providing $6.98 million for drainage work in Waveland and making $6.30 million available to install wind retrofit protections at Harrison County schools.

“Prevention can be more cost effective than repair.  Mississippi’s leaders on the coast are diligent about identifying projects that will lessen the risks to people and property from disasters.  I appreciate FEMA approving funding for these hazard mitigation projects which will better prepare our Gulf Coast for future emergencies, and ultimately save taxpayer dollars when the next disaster strikes,” said Cochran, who serves on the Senate appropriations subcommittee that determines funding for FEMA.

“Hurricane Katrina showed the necessity of strong public structures able to withstand a powerful storm,” said Wicker.  “Preparation for future hurricanes should begin with strengthening important public buildings, and these grants will help achieve that goal.”

FEMA is paying 100 percent of the $6.98 million cost for the City of Waveland Drainage Improvement Project, which is intended to improve storm water runoff infrastructure for residential and commercial properties within city limits.  The city determined that drainage improvements are needed on 29 watersheds or basins owned by the municipality.

The Harrison County School Wind Retrofit Project will involve 19 school campuses and 69 buildings, many of which are used as “shelters of last resort” during emergencies.  The work on more than 2,600 doors and windows will involve the installation of screens, shutters and other protective devices to improve security at these facilities.  The total project will cost $6.63 million, with FEMA providing 95 percent of the cost.  A nonfederal share of $331,758 is required to complete the project.

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