New Smyrna Beach braces for release of Critical Flooding Study

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Almost a year after Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc in New Smyrna Beach, causing extensive flooding, city officials are awaiting the results of a flooding study that will evaluate the impact of new construction and the effectiveness of stormwater regulations and maintenance practices. In response to the catastrophic event, city commissioners approved a six-month development moratorium to conduct this study.

The flooding study will provide crucial information for the city's development plans and infrastructure improvements. It will assess the impact of new construction on the area's drainage systems, evaluate the effectiveness of existing stormwater regulations, and examine the city's maintenance practices. By understanding the causes and vulnerabilities exposed by Hurricane Ian, city officials hope to implement measures to mitigate future flood risks and enhance the community's resilience.

Hurricane Ian, which struck the area last September, brought relentless rainfall and a high storm surge, resulting in over 20 inches of precipitation in a remarkably short period. This extreme weather event, which experts describe as a "100-year event," prompted city officials to act and temporarily halt development projects to thoroughly assess the causes and potential solutions for the widespread flooding.

As the moratorium's expiration date of June 27 approaches, the engineering firm Jones Edmunds & Associates, Inc. has nearly completed the comprehensive flooding study. To present their findings to the public, the firm has organized a public forum scheduled for Tuesday, May 30, at 5 p.m. at the Brannon Center, 105 S. Riverside Drive in New Smyrna Beach.

Residents who are unable to attend the event in person can live stream the event on the City's official YouTube channel at https://bit.ly/3WCCw5V.