The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) has been awarded a $7.22 million grant from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to install four generators at the Stock Island Reverse Osmosis Facility. These generators will provide critical emergency power during severe storms, ensuring uninterrupted water service for residents of the lower Florida Keys, even in the event of a 500-year flood.
This essential grant, written by Maghan Barber, a seasoned grant and funding specialist, is a direct response to the lessons learned from Hurricane Irma in 2017. The installation of the generators will significantly strengthen the region’s resilience to future disasters, securing a reliable water supply in the face of increasingly frequent and severe weather events.
The FEMA HMGP is a key federal disaster assistance initiative aimed at reducing future risks and strengthening communities. The program provides funding after the declaration of a major disaster, with the goal of fortifying critical infrastructure, such as the FKAA’s water facilities, against potential hazards. According to a 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences, for every dollar spent on hazard mitigation, more than six dollars are saved in recovery and rebuilding costs.
Maghan Barber’s expertise was pivotal in securing the grant for FKAA, allowing them to take advantage of Florida’s FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, which increases the state’s eligibility for up to 20 percent in HMGP funding following federally declared disasters like Hurricane Irma. The HMGP program reimburses up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects, with the remaining costs covered by a combination of state, local, and in-kind contributions.
“Securing this grant for FKAA was a significant milestone,” Barber said. “This project not only enhances the safety and resilience of the water infrastructure but also exemplifies the importance of proactive hazard mitigation in protecting vital community services.”
The installation of these generators will ensure that the Florida Keys are better prepared for future storms and extreme weather events, providing continuous access to water even in times of crisis. Thanks to the efforts of Maghan Barber and FEMA’s support, the FKAA is on track to bolster its infrastructure and protect the community for years to come.
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