WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Thad Cochran, R-Miss., today announced that a $1.49 million federal grant has been awarded to support construction of a multi-purpose safe room on the campus of Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program award will support construction of a 10,000-square-foot safe room built to FEMA-361 standards to protect people during hurricane or tornado-force winds. The multipurpose facility will be built to withstand wind speeds up to 250 mph.

“Many people living in small communities rely on safe rooms for protection during tornadoes and severe storms,” Wicker said. “The need for a reinforced facility in Coahoma County is real, and this is exactly the type of project for which this program was designed. Students, staff, and local residents can be assured that shelter will be available when disaster strikes.”

“Tornadoes and other severe weather are a consistent concern for Mississippians. I’m pleased that this investment can help Coahoma Community College and Clarksdale residents be better prepared for inclement weather,” said Cochran.

When completed, the safe room will be able to protect 1,592 students, faculty, staff, and residents within a half-mile radius of Coahoma Community College. It will be located at 3240 Friars Point Road. Federal funding, which totals $1,491,300, represents 90 percent of the $1,657,000 total construction cost.

The FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to states and local governments for long-term hazard mitigation activities designed to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters. Data shows that investments in hazard mitigation before a disaster creates a net savings of taxpayer dollars during post-disaster response and recovery periods.