How FEMA and the BiOp are Impacting Development in the Puget Sound
Presented by
Ray Liaw
Result: At same time floodplains are getting bigger/deeper, the applicable development regulations are getting tougher.
Map 100 year floodplain; known as FIRMs. Pierce County FIRMs not substantially updated since 1987.
Remapping in 2000s
Two things changed that brought about remapping: FEMA initiated map modernization digital floodplain maps. New scrutiny regarding levees. Result: Dramatically different floodplains
***Warning: The current maps may apply. Pierce County p-FIRMs issued in 2007 E.g., Pierce County, Tacoma, Fife using already
Result: Much harder to develop, redevelop and/or maintain property if it is mapped in the floodplain.
Door
3 3 3 3 2 3
Approved?
Not yet Yes Yes Yes Not yet Not yet
Jurisdiction
Pierce County Puyallup Roy Ruston South Prairie Steilacoom
Door
2 2 1 3 3 3
Approved?
Not yet Not yet Yes Yes Not yet Yes
Gig Harbor
Lakewood Milton Orting
2
3 3 2
Not yet
Not yet Yes Yes
Sumner
Tacoma University Place Wilkeson
2
2 3 3
Not yet
Not yet Yes Yes
No public participation.
FEMA and NMFS believe that BiOp requires local governments to adopt more restrictions than GMA or SMA -> Even more difficult to develop/redevelop property