Federal Emergency Management Agency: Public Notice: Acquisition and Demolition Ashford Triangle, Town of Ashford, Cattaraugus County, New York

FEMA HMGP #4397-0004

Notification is hereby given to the public of the intent of the Department of Homeland Security-Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS-FEMA) to provide federal funding to Cattaraugus County, NY, as sub-recipient for the proposed acquisition of three properties in the Cattaraugus County, #1 – 5374 Ashford Hollow Rd., West Valley, NY 14171; #2 – Route 240, West Valley, NY 14171; and #3 – 9269 Route 240, West Valley, NY 14171. The proposed project would be funded through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). This notification is given in accordance with Executive Order (EO) 11988 (Floodplain Management), Executive Order (EO) 11990 (Protection of Wetlands), and 44 CFR Part 9, regulations for implementing EO 11988-11990.

The sub-recipient seeks Federal funding to acquire and demolish the three properties. The subject properties are located within or adjacent to the 100-year floodplain and have been subjected to frequent flooding. The properties will be acquired, houses demolished, all structures completely removed, and foundations pushed below grade. Driveways, walkways, and any other feature that is not natural will be removed. Ground disturbance will be kept to a minimum and only where necessary, similarly with construction equipment. After demolition, property will have material added back in, regraded and seeded. Future use of the properties will be green space and parcels will be deed restricted in perpetuity.

Federal Executive Orders 11988, Floodplain Management, and 11990, Protection of Wetlands, require federal agencies to review proposed actions in floodplains and/or wetlands and explore practicable alternatives to avoid, minimize or mitigate potential impacts. FEMA has determined that the proposed alternative is the most practicable alternative. FEMA has also determined that investment of funds to reduce flood risk is in the public interest.

The public is invited to provide comments about these projects. Written comments may be submitted by mail to FEMA Region II, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Leo O’Brien Federal Building, 11A Clinton Square, Room 742, Albany, New York 12207 or by email to FEMAR2COMMENT@fema.dhs.gov. Comments should be submitted within 15 days of this notice.