The document provides information on Richmond, Virginia's flood protection system, including details on the floodwall, pump stations, and ponding areas. It discusses the materials used in the floodwall's construction, the staffing levels for maintenance, inspection schedules, and the last major flood event. FAQs are answered on topics like the floodwall's length, height variations, typical inspection ratings, and certifying organizations. Relevant city code sections are also excerpted regarding construction standards and prohibitions in special flood hazard areas.
Wetland and Stream Crossing Impacts of Proposed M-83redaphid
A detailed assessment of how the proposed Mid-County Highway Extended (M-83), in Montgomery County, Maryland will effect streams and wetlands. Annotated maps are included.
Wetland and Stream Crossing Impacts of Proposed M-83redaphid
A detailed assessment of how the proposed Mid-County Highway Extended (M-83), in Montgomery County, Maryland will effect streams and wetlands. Annotated maps are included.
Positive Declaration for Pilgrim Pipeline from NY DEC & Thruway AuthorityMarcellus Drilling News
A document instruction the proposed Pilgrim Pipeline, which is really two pipelines (one heading south from Albany to NJ carrying Bakken oil, the other north from NJ to Albany carrying gasoline and other refined products) will need to complete a full environmental review before the project will be considered. Both anti-fossil fuel freaks and the pipeline builders welcomed the news (strangely).
Citizens Vision - Cleveland OH Scranton Peninsula River JewelR Ray Saikus
Proposal for a channel along the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland Ohio at the base of the Scranton Peninsula to improve commercial navigation and free up 1 mile of river for continuous public use and more public access time all along the length of the river. An infrastructure shovel ready project with many short and long term benefits for Cleveland and the region. Reduced dredging benefits the environment.
Post Harvey Flood Data and the Future of Resilient Infrastructurejuliekannai
John Blount, Harris County Engineer
In late August, a downgraded tropical storm Harvey, which made landfall as a category 4 hurricane just days before, stalled over southwest Texas causing torrential flooding throughout the region. Unincorporated Harris County alone was inundated with in excess of a trillions gallons of storm water over 4 days, enough to fill the Astrodome 3200 times. In the aftermath of the unprecedented event, local officials were left to shepherd constituents through recovery and back to a sense of normalcy.
In this presentation, the county engineer, John Blount, gives a detailed account of the after events of Hurricane Harvey and its effects on the environment, infrastructure and community. Mr. Blount will analyze flood data yet to be released to the public, in order give the audience a perspective of just how devastating Harvey’s flood waters were. This session will breaks down the county facilities destroyed by Hurricane Harvey and John’s vision to respond with resilient solutions instead of temporary fixes because with the frequency and severity of recent storms, this could be the new normal.
Review of available data and documentation relevant to the study area indicate that Gee Creek in its present condition does not have sufficient capacity within its
floodway to convey the runoff of an extreme event like Hurricane Irma within its banks, and that
resulting high stages in Gee Creek may present a tailwater limitation in the many secondary
drainage systems that discharge into the Creek, such as those serving Hacienda Village and the
Lido Road corridor in North Orlando Ranches, resulting in flooding of those systems.
Positive Declaration for Pilgrim Pipeline from NY DEC & Thruway AuthorityMarcellus Drilling News
A document instruction the proposed Pilgrim Pipeline, which is really two pipelines (one heading south from Albany to NJ carrying Bakken oil, the other north from NJ to Albany carrying gasoline and other refined products) will need to complete a full environmental review before the project will be considered. Both anti-fossil fuel freaks and the pipeline builders welcomed the news (strangely).
Citizens Vision - Cleveland OH Scranton Peninsula River JewelR Ray Saikus
Proposal for a channel along the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland Ohio at the base of the Scranton Peninsula to improve commercial navigation and free up 1 mile of river for continuous public use and more public access time all along the length of the river. An infrastructure shovel ready project with many short and long term benefits for Cleveland and the region. Reduced dredging benefits the environment.
Post Harvey Flood Data and the Future of Resilient Infrastructurejuliekannai
John Blount, Harris County Engineer
In late August, a downgraded tropical storm Harvey, which made landfall as a category 4 hurricane just days before, stalled over southwest Texas causing torrential flooding throughout the region. Unincorporated Harris County alone was inundated with in excess of a trillions gallons of storm water over 4 days, enough to fill the Astrodome 3200 times. In the aftermath of the unprecedented event, local officials were left to shepherd constituents through recovery and back to a sense of normalcy.
In this presentation, the county engineer, John Blount, gives a detailed account of the after events of Hurricane Harvey and its effects on the environment, infrastructure and community. Mr. Blount will analyze flood data yet to be released to the public, in order give the audience a perspective of just how devastating Harvey’s flood waters were. This session will breaks down the county facilities destroyed by Hurricane Harvey and John’s vision to respond with resilient solutions instead of temporary fixes because with the frequency and severity of recent storms, this could be the new normal.
Review of available data and documentation relevant to the study area indicate that Gee Creek in its present condition does not have sufficient capacity within its
floodway to convey the runoff of an extreme event like Hurricane Irma within its banks, and that
resulting high stages in Gee Creek may present a tailwater limitation in the many secondary
drainage systems that discharge into the Creek, such as those serving Hacienda Village and the
Lido Road corridor in North Orlando Ranches, resulting in flooding of those systems.
Staying dry with rising tides – case study miami beach inc2Kerry Olsson
The City of Miami Beach, Florida, USA is a beautiful resort community nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. Miami Beach is built on natural and man-made barrier islands.
Infrastructure which ensures residents and tourists in Miami Beach aren’t regularly flooded by sea water is often taken for granted however with a changing climate it has become evident to residents that there are issues that need to be dealt with.
Much of the system that transports stormwater directly to the sea was built just a few centimeters to one to two meters above sea level. Over the years these outlet structures have settled, and sea levels have risen, often causing seawater to flow into the stormwater system.
Overfilled stormwater systems cause seawater to push up onto streets as well as residential and commercial properties causing blocked roads, inconvenienced pedestrians, closed businesses, and damaged homes.
A team of scientists of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) in Potsdam, Germany has detected a clear upward trend in the past few decades toward more unprecedented daily rainfall events. The institute found that these once anomalous events have increased in frequency 24 percent in central and eastern US.
Miami Beach is spending more than US$500 million in infrastructure to brace for the scientific projection that the sea level will rise 1.5m by the turn of the century. This paper will present issues surrounding aging infrastructure, and solutions put in place during phase 1 & 2 of this monumental project exhibiting the success of the project and potential issues surrounding trying to flood-proof a city.
Fairfax county roadway rehabilitation projectsFairfax County
During calendar year 2017 Maintenance and Stormwater Management Division (MSMD) staff rehabilitated thirteen (13) County roadways. These roadways are either service drives or part of the Fairfax County Road Maintenance and Improvement Program (FCRMIP) inventory; thus, are not part of VDOT’s maintenance system.
Presentation by Katharine Otto, Southern Windsor County Regional Planning Commission, at the National Rural Transportation Conference, December 3 - 5, 2014 in Cincinnati, OH.
Storm Recovery Following Sandy presented at the July 24, 2014 Beach Special Area Management Plan Stakeholder Meeting.
Amy Grzybowski, Director of Planning, Code Enforcement & Grant Administration at Town of Westerly, RI
View the video here: http://new.livestream.com/universityofrhodeisland/StormRecoveryRI
MITIGATION BANKING IS BAD!
My Opponent, Kick the Cannon, has been very negative of my Business with Wetland Mitigation Banking. However, did you know, that in 2017, The City of Winter Springs received a permit to IMPACT 0.63 Acres of Direct Wetland Impacts for the construction of several NEW FEATURES at TORCASO PARK!?
The City purchased 0.147 UMAM Credits which provided 2.5 Acres of Wetland Mitigation Credits from Torcaso Park from Lake Jesup Mitigation Tract.
Within the SJRWMD Technical Staff Report it actually states that the elimination or reduction of impacts was not required for the 0.63-acre direct impacts to W1 because the ecological value of the functions provided by the area of wetland to be adversely affected is low, and the proposed mitigation will provide greater long term ecological value than the area of wetland to be adversely affected, pursuant to Section 10.2.1.2(a.) ERP A.H. Volume I.
If you want to learn more about mitigation banking industry, please visit https://mitigationbankinginc.com/
1. CRS Report (Date 12-15-2014 Complete Draft) Page 1
350-A Library Resources:
While materials are not in the Library presently, the letter below demonstrates that the City Library is
willing to house floodplain information and maps. The City will obtain these resources from FEMA
and place in the library (see letter below):
2. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 2
350-C Web Resources:
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES
FLOOD PROTECTION
The local flood protection system in Richmond has a total length of 17,327 feet (3.28 miles) and
protects 750 acres valued at approximately $153 million. It consists of:
A partially rip-rapped earthen levee
A concrete floodwall
Three overlooks (9th & Semmes, Hull & Mayo Bridge, and 12th &
Byrd)
Six roadway closures
Six railroad closures
Four personnel closure locations
Two combined roadway/railroad closures
Three pump stations
Three designated ponding areas
The southside alignment comprises three components
One earthen levee, approximately 9,000 feet long
A combination bin wall/levee, approximately 2,000 feet long
A concrete floodwall, approximately 2,000 feet long
The line of protection extends from just west of the Manchester Bridge, continues along the river's
edge to the west side of Interstate 95, turns south, then west, crossing the CSX Railway mainline
tracks, and tying into high ground at Goodes Street.
Interior runoff from the watershed in excess of the capacity of the pump station during high river
stages will be collected or backed up into the ponding areas. After the river recedes, all ponding
areas will drain by gravity through their respective outlets.
The northern alignment is comprised of one component, concrete floodwall which is approximately
4,500 feet long with height variations from five to 29 feet.
The line of protection extends across the mouth of Shockoe Valley to 12th Street. The wall is
designed to protect those areas located behind it against a flood with an average recurrence interval
of 280 years. The project was dedicated on Oct. 21, 1994, at a cost of $143 million.
Our FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) maps are available online.
3. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 3
FLOOD WALL FAQS
(FREQUENTLY ASKED FLOODWALL QUESTIONS)
Q. How many miles long is the floodwall?
A. North side of James is 4,277 feet long and protects 150 acres of Shockoe Valley. The south side is
13,046 feet long and protects 600 acres. The northside floodwall extends from 12th and Byrd St. to
21st and E. Cary St. The southside floodwall extends from Goodes St. west to just west of the
Manchester Bridge
Q. What is the highest point of the floodwall? Where is it? What is the lowest point of the floodwall?
A. The northside wall is between 15 and 25 feet high with the lowest point under the I-95 James
River Bridge in Shockoe Bottom. The tallest structure on the southside is the Gravity U-wall just west
of the Mayo Bridge which is 43 feet from the top to the river’s edge. This is the lowest point along the
south side floodwall.
Q. What material is the floodwall made of?
A. Richmond's floodwall was completed in 1995. It's made of 22,000 cubic yards of concrete, 1,050
tons of reinforcing steel and 55,000 linear feet of steel piles.
Q. How many staff people work on the floodwall year round?
A. The current staff is 5. General duties of staff: Preventative maintenance and operation of the
floodwalls, canals and Bosher’s Dam Fish Ladder, landscape maintenance in warm weather months
and repairs as needed.
Q. How often is Richmond’s floodwall tested?
A. Road Closures are tested once a year.
Q. When was the last time there was a flood in the city of Richmond?
A. The last significant floods occurred in 1996. The Blizzard of 1996 struck the Mid-Atlantic region in
January, depositing a record amount of snowfall. Within two weeks of the paralyzing blizzard, a major
rainstorm blanketed the area. The combination of warm, humid air and heavy rainfall melted the
snow at an unprecedented rate. In a little more than a day, 2 to 5 inches of water from snowmelt
combined with 2 to 5 inches of rainfall to create massive floods. The James River rose to 22 feet.
Seven months later, rains from Hurricane Fran pushed the levels back up to 23.8 feet.
Q. How often are the pump stations checked?
A. The stations are checked daily and the pumps and related equipment are inspected and operated
monthly.
Q. What grade did the last floodwall inspection receive?
A. The ratings are; Acceptable, Minimally Acceptable, and Unacceptable. The last inspection reports
received gave the Minimally Acceptable rating which is standard.
4. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 4
Q. Is the Army Corps of Engineers
the only certifying organization
for the floodwall? If not, what are
the others?
A. FEMA also requires the
floodwall to meet certification for
the Flood Insurance Rate Map
(FIRM) for providing protection
against the base. The City of
Richmond received accreditation
for the Local Flood Protection
Project on March 19, 2010.
FLOOD GATES
If you have ever wondered what a flood gate
looks like, here's the one on Brander Street
that blocks off Ancarrow's boat landing area.
OTHER IMPORTANT LINKS ON THE CITY’S
WEBPAGE:
Office of Emergency Management
(OEM) - coordination of City special
events. Additionally, critical information
is disseminated through the. City's
Reverse 911 and Integrated Flood Warning System
www.richmondgov.com
www.richmondgov.com/fire/documents/OEMBrochure.pdf
500 Year Flood Plain Keywords: 500 Year, Floodplain, FEMA, FIRM - Description.
Abstract: Represents the 500 Year Floodplain from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps
FEMA Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map Keywords: Hydrology - Apr 2, 2009, Abstract:
The Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM) Database depicts flood risk information
and supporting data used to develop the risk
City of Richmond Citizens' Emergency Preparedness Guide - Emergency Supply Kit
Checklist - Get a Kit. The first step is to consider how an emergency might affect your
family - prepare visit the Office of Emergency Management.
5. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 5
430-A.1 Prohibitions in SFHA;
DIVISION 3. - DISTRICT REGULATIONS (Code of the City of Richmond)
Sec. 50-91. - Floodplain districts generally.
(a) Permits required. No development or land disturbing activity within a designated
floodplain district shall be undertaken until after issuance of a building permit or
land disturbing activity permit as required by article III of this chapter. For the
purpose of issuance of a permit, the 100-year flood elevation shall be the base
floodwater surface elevation, with floodway, as shown in table 2, floodway data of
the flood insurance study dated December 15, 1978, and as revised effective July 20,
1998, April 2, 2009, July 16, 2014, and any subsequent revisions or amendments
thereto.
(b) Compliance with building code. No development shall be permitted within any
floodplain district except in strict compliance with the applicable sections of the
Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
(c) Effect on capacity of floodways and watercourses. No development or land
disturbing activity shall be permitted which would adversely affect the capacity of
any floodway or watercourse subject to this article.
(d) Alteration or relocation of watercourses. Prior to any alteration or relocation of any
watercourse, approval shall be obtained from the United States Army Corps of
Engineers, the State Water Control Board, and the Virginia Marine Resources
Commission; a joint permit application is available from any of these organizations.
Furthermore, notification of such proposal shall be given by the applicant to all
affected adjacent jurisdictions, the Division of Soil and Water Conservation of the
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, and the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The applicant shall be responsible for obtaining such approval
and providing required notices. Proof of approval by the United States Army Corps
of Engineers, the State Water Control Board, and the Virginia Marine Resources
Commission as well as required notification shall be furnished to the director prior
to issuance of any land disturbing activity permit.
(e) Chesapeake Bay Site Plan approval required. No development or land disturbing
activity shall be undertaken in a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area until after a
Chesapeake Bay Site Plan has been approved in accordance with the requirements of
chapter 50, article IV.
(f) Provision of vehicular access. No new residential construction, with start of
construction on or after December 9, 1991, shall be permitted without the provision
of adequate vehicular access to the site at all times prior to and during the 100-year
flood. Adequacy of access shall be as determined by the director, after consultation
with and approval by the fire marshal.
430-A.2 Prohibitions in SFHA - Buildings
Sec. 50-93. - Design criteria for utilities and facilities (Code of the City of Richmond)
Standards for the floodway district. The following provisions shall apply within the floodway
district:
(1) Encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements and other
developments are prohibited unless certification (with supporting technical data) by
a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating that encroachments
shall not result in any increase in flood levels during occurrence of the base flood.
6. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 6
Development activities which increase the water surface elevation of the base flood
may be allowed, provided that the property owner or designated representative first
applies, with the City's endorsement, for a conditional flood insurance rate map and
floodway revision, and receives the approval of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency.
(2) All new construction and substantial improvements shall comply with all applicable
flood hazard reduction provisions of this article.
(3) The placement of manufactured homes (mobile homes) is prohibited, except in an
existing manufactured homes (mobile homes) park or subdivision. A replacement
manufactured home may be placed on a lot in an existing manufactured home park
or subdivision provided the anchoring, elevation, and encroachment standards are
met.
430-A.3 Prohibitions in SFHA – Storage of Hazardous
Materials;
Sec. 106-668. - Permit required to place materials on or near open sewers or
watercourses used as sewers (Code of the City of Richmond)
It shall be unlawful for any person to place, store or deposit, on, along or within 30 feet
of the sides of any open sewer or watercourse used as a sewer within the city, any
lumber, waste building material, excavated material or other material or debris or
otherwise make such deposit in a place where such material is likely to be washed or
carried into such sewer in times of flood or overflow, without first obtaining from the
commissioner of buildings a permit to do so, after the commissioner of buildings shall
have approved a plan by which such material shall be secured so that it may not be
washed into such sewer in times of flood or overflow along the banks of such sewer or
watercourse.
430-B Freeboard Requirement:
Sec. 50-97. - New construction and substantial improvements (Code of the City of Richmond)
(a) All substantial improvements to existing structures or new construction within any
floodplain district shall conform to the applicable sections of the uniform statewide
building code for construction in a floodplain district.
(b) New construction or substantial improvement of any existing commercial, industrial, or
non-residential building (or manufactured home) shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, elevated to no lower than one foot above the base flood elevation. A registered
professional engineer or architect shall certify that the standards of this subsection are
satisfied.
(c) For historic structures as defined in this article, where elevation is not preferable,
floodproofing may be allowed instead of elevation one foot above the base flood
elevation. A registered professional engineer or architect shall certify on the certificate
plans and floodproofing certificate that the construction design and methods meet the
applicable requirements and shall submit such certificate to the director.
(d) Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor shall be used solely for parking of vehicles,
building access or storage and shall have permanent openings designed to allow the
7. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 7
entry and exit of flood waters in accordance with specifications as set forth at 44 CFR §
60.3(c)(5).
430-C Compaction & Erosion Protection:
See the following section from the 2012 Virginia Unified Statewide Building Code (USBC):
SECTION 1804 EXCAVATION, GRADING
AND FILL
Excavation near foundations. Excavation
for any purpose shall not remove lateral
support from any foundation without first
underpinning or protecting the foundation
against settlement or lateral translation.
Placement of baclcfill. The excavation
outside the foundation shall he hack filled
with soil that is free of organic material,
construction debris, cobbles and boulders
or with a controlled low-strength material
(CLSM). The backfill shall be placed in lifts
and compacted in a manner that does not
damage the foundation or the
waterproofing or dampproofling material.
Exception: CLSM need not be compacted.
Site grading. The ground immediately
adjacent to the foundation shall be sloped
away from the building at a slope of not
less than one unit vertical in 20 units
horizontal (5-pcr- cent slope) for a
minimum distance of 10 feel (3048 mm)
measured perpendicular to the face of
the wall. If physical obstructions or lot
lines prohibit 10 feet (3048 mm) of
SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS
horizontal distance, a 5-percent slope
shall he provided to an appro1•ed
alternative method of diverting water
away from the foundation. Swales used
for this purpose shall he sloped a
minimum of 2 percent where located
within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the building
foundation. Impervious surfaces within
I 0 feet (3048 mm) of the building
foundation shall he sloped
a minimum of 2 percent away from the
building.
Exception: Where climatic or soil
conditions warrant, the slope of the
ground away from the building foundation
shall he permitted to be reduced to not
less than one unit vertical in 48 units
horizontal (2-percent slope).
The procedure used to establish the final
ground level adjacent to the foundation
shall account for additional settlement of
the backfill.
Grading and fill in flood hazard areas. In
flood hazard areas established in Section
1612.3, grading and/or lilt shall not be
approved:
8. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 8
I. Unless such fill is placed, compacted
and sloped to minimi7.e shifting, slumping
and erosion during the rise and fall of
flood water and, as applicable, wave
action.
2. In floodways, unless it has been
demonstrated through hydrologic and
hydraulic analyses performed by a
registered design professional in
accordance with standard engineering
practice that the proposed grading or fill,
or both, will not result in any increase in
flood levels during the occurrence of the
design flood.
3. In flood hazard areas subject to high-
velocity wave action, unless such fill is
conducted and/or placed to avoid
diversion of water and waves toward any
building or structure.
4. In floodways, unless it has been
demonstrated through hydrologic and
hydraulic analyses performed by a
registered design professional in
accordance with standard engineering
practice that the proposed grading or fill,
or both, will not result in any increase in
flood levels during the occurrence of the
design flood.
5. In flood hazard areas subject to high-
velocity wave action, unless such fill is
conducted and/or placed to avoid
diversion of water and waves toward any
building or structure.
6. Where design flood elevations are
specified but flood- ways have not been
designated, unless it has been
demonstrated that the cumulative
effect of the proposed flood hazard
area encroachment, when combined with
all other existing and anticipated flood
hazard area encroachment, will not
increase the design flood elevation more
than 1 foot (305 mm) at any point.
Compacted fill material where shallow
foundations will bear on compacted fill
material. The compacted fill shall comply
with the provisions of an approved
geotechnical report, as set forth in Section
IRC.
Exception: Compacted fill material les >
than 12 inches:-. (305 mm) in depth need
not comply with an approved repo11,
provided it is a n natural non-organic
material that is not susceptible to swelling
when exposed to moisture and it has been
compacted to a minimum of 10 percent
Modified Proctor in accordance with ASTM
01557. The compaction shall be verified
by a qualified inspector approved by the
building official. Material other than
natural material may be used as fill
material when companied by a
certification from an RDP and approved by
the building official.
Controlled low-strength material (CLSM)
Where shallow foundation will bear on
controlled low-strength the material
(C'LSMJ, the CLSM shall comply with the
provisions of an approved geotechnical
report, as set forth in Section 1803.
9. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 9
430-D Track building Improvements/Repairs Cumulatively:
Yes. When a building is damaged from a flood event documentation has to be submitted that
demonstrates the repairs do not exceed 50% of the market value of the property prior to the flood
event.
430-F Protection of Critical Equipment Protected from 500 Yr
Floods:
No
430-G Non-conversion Agreements
No
430-H Enforcement of IBC and IRC
Yes the City of Richmond enforces the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) which
is in accordance with the IBC and IRC. This is supported by the following sections of City Code:
Sec. 14-1. - Adoption of Uniform Statewide Building Code.
The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, 2009 Edition, as promulgated by the state board of
housing and community development, along with its associated referenced standards and all future
editions and amendments are hereby adopted and incorporated into this Code by reference and made
applicable within the city. Annual testing of all backflow prevention devices in accordance with Part III,
Article 2, section 131, item 12, subsection 505.5.2 of the Uniform Statewide Building Code, amending
the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) will be as required in the IPMC and in accordance
with the written policy of the commissioner of buildings.
Sec. 50-122. - Required permits.
(a) Building permits. For the purposes of this article, building permits shall be obtained as
follows:
(1) A building permit to erect, construct, reconstruct, enlarge, extend or structurally
alter any building or structure within a floodplain district shall be required as set
forth in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. Applications for building
permits shall be filed with the commissioner of buildings, and no such permit
shall be issued until the applicant has furnished satisfactory evidence that all
necessary permits have been received from those governmental agencies from
which approval is required by state and federal law.
10. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 10
(2) In addition to information required by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code to
be provided in conjunction with building permit applications, the following shall be
included when the property involved is located within a floodplain district:
a. The elevation of the 100-year flood and delineation of the 100-year floodplain;
b. The elevation of the lowest floor, including basement; and
c. The elevation to which a nonresidential structure is to be floodproofed.
(b) Permits for land disturbing activities. Permits for land disturbing activities shall be
obtained as follows:
(1) A permit for any land disturbing activity within a floodplain district shall be
required as set forth in article III of this chapter which pertains to site control,
erosion and drainage, provided that the exceptions contained therein shall not
be applicable within floodplain districts.
(2) For land disturbing activity proposed in conjunction with construction for which
a building permit application has been filed, a site grading and drainage plan
shall be approved by the director prior to issuance of the building permit, and a
separate land disturbing activity permit shall be required.
(3) Application for land disturbing activity permits shall be made to the director,
and no such permit shall be issued nor shall any site grading and drainage plan
be approved until the applicant has furnished satisfactory evidence that all
necessary permits have been received from those governmental agencies from
which approval is required by state and federal law, and until the director is
satisfied that the applicable sections of this article and the site control, erosion
and drainage regulations are met.
(4) The 100-year floodplain shall be delineated on all plans submitted for approval
of land disturbing activity and site grading and drainage.
(c) Chesapeake Bay Site Plan. A Chesapeake Bay Site Plan shall be required for any
property located within a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area in accordance with
chapter 50, article IV.
Sec. 50-123. - Modifications to requirements of building code.
(a) Notification of cost of flood insurance. Upon granting a modification to construct a
structure below the 100-year flood level, the building code board of appeals shall notify
the applicant in writing that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the
increased risk resulting from such construction.
430 -I Regulations to Ensure Local Buildings are Protected
from Local Drainage Flooding
Yes, see the following section of City Code:
Sec. 50-93. - Design criteria for utilities and facilities.
(a) Design criteria generally. The design criteria established by the most recent version of
the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and the Virginia Residential Code shall be
applicable to utilities and facilities proposed to be installed within any floodplain
11. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 11
district. For privately installed sanitary sewer or water facilities which are subject to
approval by the director of public health, the director shall be satisfied, after conferring
with the director of public health and commissioner of buildings, that the applicable
sections of the uniform statewide building code are met. In addition, the following
particular design criteria shall be applicable:
(1) Drainage facilities. All storm drainage facilities shall be designed to convey the
flow of surface waters so as to minimize or eliminate damage to persons or
property. The system shall ensure drainage away from buildings and on-site
waste disposal sites. The director may require a primarily underground system
to accommodate frequent floods and a secondary surface system to
accommodate larger, less frequent floods. Drainage plans shall be consistent
with and coordinated with local and regional drainage plans. The facilities shall
be designed such that the quantity of runoff from a developed site during a 10-
year storm event shall not exceed the quantity of runoff from the same site,
pre-development, during a 10-year storm event.
(2) Streets and sidewalks. Streets and sidewalks shall be designed to minimize
potential for increasing or aggravating flood levels. Drainage openings shall be
provided to sufficiently discharge floodwaters without unduly increasing flood
heights from the 10-year storm event.
(3) On-site waste disposal systems. On-site waste disposal systems shall be
located and constructed to avoid impairment to them or contamination from
them during flooding.
(b) Standards for flood-fringe and approximated floodplain.
(1) When base flood elevation data or floodway data have not been provided, the
Director shall obtain, review, and reasonably utilize any base flood elevation
and floodway data available from a federal, state, or any other source, in order
to administer the provisions of this ordinance. When such base flood elevation
data is utilized, the Director shall obtain:
a. The elevation (in relation to the mean sea level) of the lowest floor
(including the basement) of all new and substantially improved
structures; and
b. If the structure has been floodproofed in accordance with Federal
Emergency Management Agency requirements, the elevation in relation
to the mean sea level to which the structure has been floodproofed.
(2) When the data is not available from any source, the lowest floor of the structure
shall be elevated to no lower than the highest adjacent grade.
(c) Standards for the floodway district. The following provisions shall apply within the
floodway district:
(1) Encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements and
other developments are prohibited unless certification (with supporting
technical data) by a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating
that encroachments shall not result in any increase in flood levels during
occurrence of the base flood. Development activities which increase the water
surface elevation of the base flood may be allowed, provided that the property
owner or designated representative first applies, with the City's endorsement,
for a conditional flood insurance rate map and floodway revision, and receives
the approval of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(2) All new construction and substantial improvements shall comply with all
applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of this article.
12. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 12
(3) The placement of manufactured homes (mobile homes) is prohibited, except in
an existing manufactured homes (mobile homes) park or subdivision. A
replacement manufactured home may be placed on a lot in an existing
manufactured home park or subdivision provided the anchoring, elevation, and
encroachment standards are met.
430 –O CFM, EMI, NFIP Course Graduates
Yes, - 1
430 – O Retain paper records at a Secure Off-site Location
Yes, the records are stored in the lower level of the City Hall of Richmond and eventually archived in the
lower levels of the main branch of the City of Richmond Library. At this time there is no digital backup
of the paper records. The City is hoping to initial such a system to begin digital storage within the next
year. A new system “EnerGov” is being developed to achieve this task.
440- A Is the FIRM on the City’s GIS system?
Yes – see Appendix A for a sample map from the City’s GIS system.
440-B Did the City retain copies of old FIRMs?
Yes.
450- A Are new developments required to build stormwater
retention or detention ponds?
Yes, the ordinance below specifies this requirement;
Sec. 50-406. - Stormwater management plan; contents of plans.
(a) The permittee's stormwater management plan, referenced at section 50-404, shall be written in
compliance with the stormwater management technical criteria set forth in section 50-409 for the
entire common plan of development or sale where applicable, and shall consider all sources of surface
and subsurface runoff and groundwater flows converted to subsurface flows. Individual lots in new
residential, commercial, or industrial developments shall not be considered separate land-disturbing
activities.
(b) The permittee shall include the following items in the stormwater management plan:
(1) Information on the type and location of stormwater discharges; information on the features to
which stormwater is being discharged including surface waters or karst features, if present,
and the predevelopment and post-development drainage areas;
(2) Contact information including the name, address, and telephone number of the owner and the
tax reference number and parcel number of the property or properties affected;
13. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 13
(3) A narrative that includes a description of current (pre-land disturbance) site conditions and
final (post-land disturbance) site conditions;
(4) A general description of the proposed stormwater management facilities and the mechanism
through which the facilities will be operated and maintained after construction is complete;
(5) Information on the proposed stormwater management facilities, including:
a. The types of facilities;
b. The location of the facilities, including geographic coordinates;
c. The acreage treated; and
d. The surface water or karst features, if present into which the facilities will discharge.
(6) Hydrologic and hydraulic computations, including runoff characteristics;
(7) Documentation and calculations verifying compliance with the water quality and water
quantity requirements of section 50-409
(8) A map or maps of the site that depicts the site topography and includes:
a. All existing contributing drainage areas;
b. Existing streams, ponds, culverts, ditches, wetlands, other water bodies, and
floodplains;
c. Soil types, geologic formations if karst features are present in the area, forest cover, and
other vegetative areas;
d. Current land use including existing structures, roads, and locations of known utilities
and easements;
e. Sufficient information on adjoining parcels to assess the impacts of stormwater from the
site on these parcels;
f. The limits of clearing and grading, and the proposed drainage patterns on the site;
g. Proposed buildings, roads, parking areas, utilities, and stormwater management
facilities; and
h. Proposed land use with tabulation of the percentage of surface area to be adapted to
various uses, including, but not limited to, planned locations of utilities, roads, and
easements.
(c) If a permittee or operator intends to meet the water quality and/or quantity requirements set forth in
this article through the use of off-site compliance options, where applicable and available, then a letter
of availability from the off-site provider must be included in the stormwater management plan.
Approved off-site options must achieve the necessary nutrient reductions prior to the commencement
of land-disturbing activities except as allowed by state law.
(d) Elements of the stormwater management plan that include activities regulated under Chapter 4 of Title
54.1 of the Code of Virginia (§ 54.1-400 et seq.) shall be appropriately sealed and signed by a
professional registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia pursuant to Article 1 of Chapter 4 of Title
54.1 of the Code of Virginia (§ 54.1-400 et seq.).
(e) A construction record drawing for permanent stormwater management facilities shall be submitted to
the Administrator. The construction record drawing shall be appropriately sealed and signed by a
professional registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia, certifying that the stormwater management
facilities have been constructed in accordance with the approved plan.
14. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 14
450- C Permit Records showing requirements for new
development to control erosion from construction sites
Yes, in Cornerstone each permit issued has a requirement as a permit condition to prevent
erosion from construction sites. This is further supported by the code sections below:
Sec. 50-403. - Permit requirement; exemptions.
(a) Except as provided herein, no person may engage in any land-disturbing activity in the city until the
Administrator has issued a Richmond Stormwater Management Program Permit in accordance with
this article.
(b) A Chesapeake-Bay Preservation Act land-disturbing activity does not require completion of a
registration statement or require coverage under the General Permit, but shall be subject to the
following technical criteria and program and administrative requirements: an erosion and sediment
control plan consistent with the requirements of Article III of this chapter; a stormwater management
plan consistent with the requirements of section 50-406; exceptions which may be requested pursuant
to 9VAC25-870-57; the technical and administrative requirements of section 50-409; the long-term
maintenance requirements for permanent stormwater facilities in section 50-410, and the requirements
for channel protection and flood protection, the availability of off-site compliance options, and
requirements for design storm and hydrologic methods, linear development controls, and criteria
associated with stormwater impoundment structures or facilities found at 9VAC25-870-51.
Sec. 50-404. - Plan submission and approval; prohibitions.
Pursuant to § 62.1-55.15:27 of the Code of Virginia, the city hereby establishes a Richmond Stormwater
Management Program for land-disturbing activities and adopts the applicable standards and specifications for
Virginia Stormwater Management Programs promulgated by the State Water Control Board for the purposes set
out in section 50-401. The Director of Public Utilities is hereby designated as the Administrator of the Richmond
Stormwater Management Program.
(a) Any person who plans to conduct a land-disturbing activity in the city shall first submit the following
to the Administrator:
(1) An application for a permit on the most current city-approved form, including a general permit
registration if required;
(2) An erosion and sediment control plan to be reviewed for approval in accordance with Article III
of this chapter with certification by the applicant that the plan will be followed;
(3) A stormwater management plan that meets the requirements of section 50-406, or, if authorized
by state law, an agreement in lieu of a stormwater management plan; and
(4) All applicable fees and a performance bond as required by sections 50-415 and 50-416 of this
Code.
(b) No person shall begin to conduct any land-disturbing activity in the city until the city has received all
of the items listed in section 50-404(a) and has issued a Richmond Stormwater Management Program
Permit to the applicant. All land clearing, construction, disturbance, land development and drainage
must be performed in accordance with the terms of the Richmond Stormwater Management Program
Permit. Failure to comply may result in enforcement by the city pursuant to section 50-414
15. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 15
Every permit applicant shall furnish, when requested by the Administrator, such application materials,
plans, specifications, and other pertinent information as the Administrator may determine necessary to
determine the effect of the discharge from the land-disturbing activity on the quality of state waters, or
such other information as the Administrator may determine necessary to accomplish the purposes of this
chapter.
(c) Issuance of a Richmond Stormwater Management Program Permit does not relieve the applicant of
having to obtain any other permits, including any city-issued permits that are required prior to
beginning a land-disturbing activity. The city will not issue any other grading, building, or other local
permit until the Administrator has approved a Richmond Stormwater Management Program Permit
for the property.
Sec. 50-406. - Stormwater management plan; contents of plans.
(a) The permittee's stormwater management plan, referenced at section 50-404, shall be written in
compliance with the stormwater management technical criteria set forth in section 50-409 for the
entire common plan of development or sale where applicable, and shall consider all sources of surface
and subsurface runoff and groundwater flows converted to subsurface flows. Individual lots in new
residential, commercial, or industrial developments shall not be considered separate land-disturbing
activities.
(b) The permittee shall include the following items in the stormwater management plan:
(1) Information on the type and location of stormwater discharges; information on the features to
which stormwater is being discharged including surface waters or karst features, if present, and
the predevelopment and post-development drainage areas;
(2) Contact information including the name, address, and telephone number of the owner and the tax
reference number and parcel number of the property or properties affected;
(3) A narrative that includes a description of current (pre-land disturbance) site conditions and final
(post-land disturbance) site conditions;
(4) A general description of the proposed stormwater management facilities and the mechanism
through which the facilities will be operated and maintained after construction is complete;
(5) Information on the proposed stormwater management facilities, including:
a. The types of facilities;
b. The location of the facilities, including geographic coordinates;
c. The acreage treated; and
d. The surface water or karst features, if present into which the facilities will discharge.
(6) Hydrologic and hydraulic computations, including runoff characteristics;
(7) Documentation and calculations verifying compliance with the water quality and water quantity
requirements of section 50-409
(8) A map or maps of the site that depicts the site topography and includes:
a. All existing contributing drainage areas;
b. Existing streams, ponds, culverts, ditches, wetlands, other water bodies, and floodplains;
c. Soil types, geologic formations if karst features are present in the area, forest cover, and
other vegetative areas;
d. Current land use including existing structures, roads, and locations of known utilities and
easements;
e. Sufficient information on adjoining parcels to assess the impacts of stormwater from the
site on these parcels;
f. Proposed buildings, roads, parking areas, utilities, and stormwater management facilities;
and
16. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 16
h.Proposed land use with tabulation of the percentage of surface area to be adapted to various
uses, including, but not limited to, planned locations of utilities, roads, and easements.
(d) If a permittee or operator intends to meet the water quality and/or quantity requirements set forth in
this article through the use of off-site compliance options, where applicable and available, then a letter
of availability from the off-site provider must be included in the stormwater management plan.
Approved off-site options must achieve the necessary nutrient reductions prior to the commencement
of land-disturbing activities except as allowed by state law.
450- D Permit Records requiring new stormwater facilities to
include water quality provisions
Yes, the provisions found in Chapter 50 of the Code of the City of Richmond reference and
require treatment of stormwater to improve the water quality as well as the water quantity.
Please see code section below:
Sec. 50-405. - Stormwater pollution prevention plan; contents of plans.
(a) The operator shall maintain a stormwater pollution prevention plan throughout the period of permit
coverage that is consistent with the requirements of 9VAC25-870-54 and 9VAC25-880-70. The
stormwater pollution prevention plan shall include, but not be limited to, an approved erosion and
sediment control plan, an approved stormwater management plan (as approved by the city, or by the
state pursuant to the General Permit issued July 1, 2009) or an agreement in lieu of a stormwater
management plan as provided in section 50-404, a pollution prevention plan, and a description of any
additional control measures necessary to address a total maximum daily load if a specific wasteload
allocation for a pollutant has been established in a total maximum daily load and is assigned to
stormwater discharges from construction. In addition, the stormwater pollution prevention plan shall
include any information required by Section II (stormwater pollution prevention plan) of the General
Permit.
(b) The stormwater pollution prevention plan shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Control stormwater volume and velocity within the site to minimize soil erosion;
(2) Control stormwater discharges, including both peak flow rates and total stormwater volume,
to minimize erosion at outlets and to minimize downstream channel and stream bank erosion;
(3) Minimize the amount of soil exposed during construction;
(4) Minimize the disturbance of steep slopes;
(5) Minimize sediment discharges from the site. The design, installation, and maintenance of
erosion and sediment controls must address factors such as the amount, frequency, intensity
and duration of precipitation, the nature of resulting stormwater runoff, and soil
characteristics, including the range of soil particle sizes expected to be present on the site;
(6) Provide and maintain natural buffers around surface waters, direct stormwater to vegetated
areas to increase sediment removal and maximize stormwater infiltration, unless infeasible;
(7) Minimize soil compaction and, unless infeasible, preserve topsoil;
(8) Immediately initiate stabilization of disturbed areas, at a minimum, whenever any clearing,
grading, excavating, or other earth disturbing activities have ceased permanently on any
portion of the site, or have ceased temporarily on any portion of the site and will not resume
for a period exceeding 14 calendar days. The stormwater pollution prevention plan shall
require that stabilization be completed within a period of time determined by the city. In arid,
semi-arid, and drought-stricken areas where immediately initiating vegetative stabilization
measures is infeasible, the stormwater pollution prevention plan shall require that alternative
stabilization measures be employed as specified by the city; and
17. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 17
(9) Utilize outlet structures that withdraw water from the surface, unless infeasible, when
discharging from basins and impoundments.
(c) The permittee shall maintain the stormwater pollution prevention plan at a central location on the site
of the land-disturbing activity for as long as land-disturbing activities are occurring on the site. If an
onsite location is unavailable, the operator shall post notice of the stormwater pollution prevention
plan's location near the main entrance to the site. The permittee shall make the stormwater pollution
prevention plan available for public review in accordance with the terms of the General Permit, either
electronically or in hard copy.
(d) The permittee's stormwater pollution prevention plan shall be written in compliance with the
Regulations, the terms of the General Permit, and this article. The permittee shall amend the
stormwater pollution prevention plan in a timely fashion to incorporate any change in design,
construction, operation, or maintenance that has a significant effect on the discharge of pollutants to
state waters
510 A – FEMA approved Hazard Mitigation Plan adopted by
the City
Below is the resolution paper and vote to approve and adopt the hazard mitigation plan by the
City of Richmond.
INTRODUCED: March 26, 2012
RESOLUTION No. 2012-R40-71A
To approve and adopt the Richmond-Crater Multi-Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Patron – Mayor Jones
Approved as to form and legality
by the City Attorney
PUBLIC HEARING: APR 23 2012 AT 6 P.M.
WHEREAS, by Res. No. 2006-R31-43, adopted March 13, 2006, the Council approved
and adopted the Richmond Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan dated September 2005, for the City;
and
WHEREAS, the plan requires local adoption with formal review and approval by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency; and
18. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 18
WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has reviewed and approved
the Richmond-Crater Multi-Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan;
NOW THEREFORE,
AYES: 9 NOES: 0 ABSTAIN:
ADOPTED: APR 23 2012 REJECTED: STRICKEN:
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND:
That the Richmond-Crater Multi-Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan dated November 2011 is hereby
approved and adopted for the City. A copy of this Plan shall be filed and made available for review in the
office of the City Clerk.
A '1lWB copy:
'IESTE:
2012-R40-71 Voting History Electronic Paper
Patron/s: MAYOR JONES
Keywords: RICHMOND-CRATER MULTI-REGIONAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Status: APPROVE
Standing Committee: 2009-2012 Public Safety
Additional
Standing
Committee:
Title:
19. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 19
To approve and adopt the Richmond-Crater Multi-Regional Haza
Introduced Date: 3/26/2012 Consent Agenda? YES
Continued Date: Expedited? NO
Amended Date: Advertised? NO
Public Hearing: 4/23/2012
Action Date: 4/23/2012 Action: ADOPTED
Vote: 9------0---------0--------0--------0
Aye------No------Abstain---Absent--
Excused
2012-R40-71 Voting History Electronic Paper
Action Date Dist. 1 Dist. 2 Dist. 3 Dist. 4 Dist. 5 Dist. 6 Dist. 7 Dist. 8 Dist. 9
Introduced 3/26/2012
Final Vote On 4/23/2012 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Yes
2012-R40-71 Voting History Electronic Paper
510 C Ordinance(s) adopted to protect aquatic and riparian species or
other natural floodplain function
Yes, see ordinance section below;
Sec. 50-321. - Resource protection areas.
(a) At a minimum, resource protection areas shall consist of lands adjacent to water bodies with perennial flow that have
an intrinsic water quality value due to the ecological and biological processes they perform or are sensitive to impacts
which may cause significant degradation to the quality of state waters. In their natural condition, these lands provide
for the removal, reduction or assimilation of sediments, nutrients and potentially harmful or toxic substances in runoff
entering the bay and its tributaries, and minimize the adverse effects of human activities on state waters and aquatic
resources.
20. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 20
(b) The resource protection area shall include:
(1) Tidal wetlands;
(2) Non-tidal wetlands connected by surface flow and contiguous to tidal wetlands or water bodies with perennial
flow;
(3) Tidal shores;
(4) Such other lands considered by the city to meet the provisions of section 50-321(a) and to be necessary to
protect the quality of state waters; and
(5) A buffer area not less than 100 feet in width located adjacent to and landward of the components listed in
subdivisions [subsections] (1) through (4) above, and along both sides of any water body with perennial flow.
The full buffer area shall be designated as the landward component of the resource protection area
notwithstanding the presence of permitted uses, encroachments, and permitted vegetation clearing in
compliance with division 4 (section 50-330 et seq.) of this article.
(c) Designation of the components listed in subdivisions [subsections] (1)—(4) of section 50-321(b) shall not be subject to
modification by the city, unless based on reliable, site-specific information as provided for in section 50-324 and
subsection (f).
(d) For the purpose of generally determining whether water bodies have perennial flow, the city shall use the designation of
water bodies depicted as perennial on the most recent United States Geological Survey 7½ minute topographic
quadrangle map (scale 1:24,000). However, site-specific determinations shall be made or confirmed by the city pursuant
to section 50-324, whenever development is proposed on a site within 600 feet of a stream and any contiguous wetlands.
The site specific determinations of water bodies with perennial flow shall be based on the protocols listed in the
"Determinations of Water Bodies with Perennial Flow," Guidance on the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Designation
and Management Regulation, September, 2003, published by the Commonwealth of Virginia and as may be amended
from time to time.
Sec. 50-322. - Resource management areas.
(a) Resource management areas shall include land types that, if improperly used or developed, have a potential for
causing significant water quality degradation or for diminishing the functional value of the resource protection area.
(b) A resource management area shall be provided contiguous to the entire inland boundary of the resource protection
area. The following land categories shall be considered for inclusion in the resource management area and, where
mapping resources indicate the presence of these land types contiguous to the resource protection area should be
included in designations of resource management areas:
(1) 100-year floodplains;
(2) Highly erodible soils, including steep slopes;
(3) Highly permeable soils;
(4) Non-tidal wetlands not included in the resource protection area; and
(5) Such other lands considered by the city to meet the provisions of subsection (a) of this section and to be
necessary to protect the quality of state waters.
(c) Resource management areas shall encompass a land area large enough to provide significant water quality protection
through the employment of the criteria in Title 9, Agency 25, Chapter 830, Part IV (9VAC25-830-120 et seq.) and the
requirements in Title 9, Agency 25, Chapter 830, Parts II (9VAC25-830-50 et seq.) and V (9VAC25-830-160 et seq.)
of the Virginia Administrative Code. For the purpose of mapping those resource management areas, so designated
because they buffer designated resource protection areas, the map shall include at a minimum: a 500-foot buffer
around any designated resource protection area and the limits of any land categories listed in subsection (b) above
which extend beyond this 500-foot buffer. In areas where the resource management area buffers a stream or water
body where the site-specific evaluation has yet to be done, the resource management area shall consist of a 600-foot
buffer outward from the center of the stream or water body.
21. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 21
Below is the Table of Contents for the Natural Resources section of the Master Plan. This section further
demonstrates the City’s commitment to preservation of the natural functions of the floodplain.
CHAPTER 6 – Natural Resources
Natural Resources Goals
Water Quality
The James River
Air Quality
Environmentally Sensitive Lands
Urban Open Space
NATURALRESOURCES
Over the last several decades, there has been a growing recognition of the crucial
need to preserve the City's natural resources and to manage waste, noise; air
pollution and other by-products of develop mint. Development can occur in ways
that are detrimental or beneficial to the natural environment, and future livability in
the City will be determined by the development methods chosen.
There are five specific elements of the City's natural environment particularly
vulnerable to the negative effects of poorly planned development: water quality,
the James River (the City's most vital natural resource and a high-visibility
attraction important in maintaining quality of life), air quality, environmentally
sensitive lands, and urban open space.
The Master Plan emphasizes Richmond's commitment to accommodate high
quality development with community enhancement and environmental quality in
mind. The ability to maintain a high quality of urban life, thereby attracting and
retaining businesses and residents, depends upon how well the City preserves and
protects the unique natural resources within its urban environment.
22. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 22
520 – Removal of Buildings out of the Floodplain
530 – Pre-FIRM Buildings that have been Elevated Voluntarily
Date Pre Post Substantially Date of Sub. Feet
City of Richmond CID SFHA Floodway Built FIRM FIRM Improved Improvement BFE
Below
BFE
2313 Yorktown Ave. 510129 N AE 1947 Y N Remodel - electrical 12/15/1996 62 -2
1548 E Main Street 510129 N AE 1907 Y N
Multiple
Improvements 6/12/2013** 23 -3
21 N 17th Street 510129 N AE 1924 Y N New HVAC 9/26/2007 24 -3
29 N 17th Street 510129 N AE 1853 Y N
Repair due to Flood
Damage 2/16/2006 24 -3
1001 Haxall Point* 510129 N AE 1920 Y N
Covert Power Station
to Condos 6-11-2014*** 37 -8
229 Erich Road 510129 N AE 1967 Y N
Multiple
Improvements 12/11/2011** 197 -2
Notes:
Date of Improvement = CO Date
* Area below BFE is used to park cars only - No habitable space
** Latest Date
***Over 2000 permits on file
540 A-Regularly inspections of drainage facilities (streams
and ditches)
Yes, see ordinance specifications below:
Sec. 50-411. - Monitoring and inspections.
(a) The Administrator is authorized to inspect any land-disturbing activity in the city for:
(1) Compliance with the approved erosion and sediment control plan;
(2) Compliance with the approved stormwater management plan or the agreement in lieu of a
stormwater management plan;
(3) Development, updating, and implementation of a pollution prevention plan; and
(4) Development and implementation of any additional control measures necessary to address
a TMDL. The permittee or operator of a land-disturbing activity shall permit the
Administrator to conduct such an inspection at reasonable times and under reasonable
circumstances.
(b) The Administrator is authorized to enter any establishment or upon any property, public or private, in
order to conduct surveys or investigations necessary to ensure that stormwater management facilities
are being adequately maintained as designed after completion of land-disturbing activities, to enforce
this article or, when permitted by appropriate legal arrangement, including, but not limited to, a
23. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 23
performance bond with surety, cash escrow, or letter of credit, for the purpose of taking appropriate
corrective actions required by permit when a permittee, after proper notice, has failed to take
acceptable action within the time specified.
The operator of any such property shall permit the Administrator to conduct such an inspection, survey
or investigation at reasonable times and under reasonable circumstances. The terms of the legal
documentation referenced above will govern the terms of the Administrator's actions with regard to
taking corrective actions.
(c) The Administrator is authorized to require, and a permittee shall furnish, when requested, any
application materials, plans, specifications, and other pertinent information as may be necessary to
determine the effect of the discharge on the quality of state waters, or such other information as may
be necessary to accomplish the purposes of this chapter.
(d) The Administrator is authorized to conduct post-construction inspections of stormwater management
facilities pursuant to the city's approved inspection program. The Administrator shall conduct an
inspection of each facility, at a minimum, at least once every five years, except as may otherwise be
provided for in section 50-410
540-C Capital Improvement Program for Drainage Improvements
Highlighted below is the CIP for stormwater in 2014:
Capital Improvement Program: FY 2014 Uses of Funds
Project Title Page Proposed FY 2014
Gas Utility
Gas Utility New Business 91 6,611,000
SystemReplacement 92 22,835,000
Subtotal: Gas Utility 29,446,000
Stormwater Utility
Stormwater Facilities Improvements 93 7,500,000
Subtotal: Stormwater Utility 7,500,000
Wastewater Utility
City of Richmond Floodwall 94 1,950,000
Sanitary Sewers 95 18,350,000
WastewaterTreatment 96 900,000
Subtotal: Wastewater Utility 21,200,000
Water Utility
Distribution System Improvements 97 10,261,000
Major Plant & Pumping Improvements 98 26,916,000
Transmission Main Improvements 99 250,000
Subtotal: Water Utility 37,427,000
Total: Non-General Fund 95,573,000
Grand Total: Capital Improvement 209,869,829
24. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 24
540-D Ordinance prohibiting dumping trash etc. in drainage ways
The ordinance that addresses this issue is as follows:
Sec. 38-151. - Unlawful dumping.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to dump or otherwise dispose of trash, garbage, refuse, litter,
junk, demolition materials, hazardous wastes or other offensive, unwholesome, unsightly,
unsanitary or unhealthy substances on public property, including in any waters within the city, a
public highway, drainage ditch, culvert, pipe, storm drain, right-of-way, property adjacent to such
highway or right-of-way, or on private property, without the written consent of the owner thereof or
the owner's agent.
(b) Any person convicted of violating this section shall be guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor and shall be
punished by a fine of not more than $2,500.00 or confinement in jail for not more than 12 months
or both such fine and imprisonment.
540-E Program to regularly inspection drainage ways and remove
debris when found
No
610 A – A system to notify residents when flooding is expected -
other than radio?
One system the City has is the IFLOWS stream gage system, which is operated by the City’s Office of
Emergency Management. The description is below:
Integrated Flood Observing and Warning System (IFLOWS)
Substantially reduce the annual loss of life from flash floods;
Reduce property damage; and,
Reduce disruption of commerce and human activities.
IFLOWS gages are used at 2 locations throughout the City of Richmond. The stream gage
consists of a pressure transducer placed in the stream, gage house stilling basin or reservoir
that measures the changes in water depth. The depth changes are transmitted by VHF radio
to a receiving computer system and the depth and time are recorded in the database.
Usually rain gages and stream gages are co-located at the same site, using only one
transmitter to send the gage data readings. The radio messages are received in real time at
the City’s site and passed on to a computer, which processes the signal into useful
information and posts it to the computer’s IFLOWS database (taken from the City
Webpage).
In late spring the City plans to install 3 more stream gages bring the total to 5. The policies
for the new, expanded IFLOWS system is described below:
CITY OF RICHMOND
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
25. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 25
INTEGRATED FLOOD OBSERVATION AND WARNING SYSTEM
(IFLOWS)
PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to present the procedures for using the IFLOWS system.
CONCEPT OF OPERATION
A. Mission:
The mission of the IFLOWS program is to substantially reduce the loss of life from flash
floods, to reduce the dollar loss of property damage, and to reduce the disruption of
commerce and human activities.
B. Concept:
Utilize the integration of communications, monitoring equipment and computer
technology to monitor and provide data to be analyzed by the Department of Public
Works, Office of Emergency Management and citizens to give warning to pending flash
flood occurrences in real-time.
C. Planning Assumptions
The IFLOWS Coordinator or designee familiarizes the Department of Emergency
Communications (DEC) and Office of Emergency Management (OEM) with the
operation of IFLOWS.
Using mapping software, rain gauge/level sensor and stream gauge, site
information will be entered by location (latitude/longitude) so that it may be
displayed on monitors strategically placed in the DEC, and DPW to include the
Emergency Operations Center and email and pager notification.
D. Operational Objectives:
The operational objective of using the IFLOWS system is to provide warnings to DPW,
OEM, DEC and local citizens of potential flash flooding. The intention of the warnings is to
help prevent loss of life and to reduce economic losses.
E. Organization:
The IFLOWS Program is a joint venture of the Department of Public Works (DPW), Office of
Emergency Management (OEM) and National Weather Service (NWS). DPW provides a
Coordinator to coordinate all activities between DPW, OEM, DEC, NWS, to include local
citizens.
The DPW point-of-contact for IFLOWS is the Engineer I - IFLOWS Coordinator or designee.
IFLOWS equipment maintenance is done by DPW IFLOWS personnel and the
communications maintenance is done by the DPW 800 MHZ Branch.
AUGMENTATION
A. Staff Notification
26. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 26
IFLOWS is activated 7/24 and provides real time data for taking appropriate actions per
Standard of Operations Procedures (SOP). When a flash flood occurs, the EOC may be
activated after the flood recedes, and citizens to include DPW are doing damage surveys
and moving to recovery from the event.
The IFLOWS is installed in two primary locations (Shockoe Creek and Middlesex Creek)
with a total of 2 rain gauges and 2 stream gauges.
B. Augmentation Levels
The augmentation level and notification procedures (email and page) will consist of the
following:
Level 1 – Advance notice of potential Flash Flooding
Department of Public Works IFLOWS Coordinator or designee
Office of Emergency Management
Department of Emergency Communications
Richmond Police
Richmond Fire
Department of Information Technology
Department of Public Utilities
Property owner in flood area (contact using Reverse 911)
Level 2 – Flash Flood Watch in effect (Evacuation of low lying area is being conducted)
Department of Public Works IFLOWS Coordinator or designee
Office of Emergency Management
Department of Emergency Communications
Richmond Police
Richmond Fire
Department of Information Technology
Department of Public Utilities
National Weather Services (Wakefield)
Property owner in flood area (contact using Reverse 911)
The early warning audible siren system will be used at this level. The DPW IFLOWS
Coordinator or designee will coordinate the activation of the alarm system.
Level 3 – Flash Flood Warning (Evacuation is being conducted) approximately 30mins to
evacuate
Department of Public Works IFLOWS Coordinator or designee
Office of Emergency Management
Department of Emergency Communications
27. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 27
Richmond Police
Richmond Fire
Department of Information Technology
Department of Public Utilities
National Weather Services (Wakefield)
Property owner in flood area (contact using Reverse 911)
The early warning audible siren system will be used at this level. The DPW IFLOWS
Coordinator or designee will coordinate the activation of the alarm system.
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Monitor Rain Gauges
Upon notification of a heavy rain event or possible flood events in the two (2) primary
locations (Shockoe Creek and Middlesex Creek) the IFLOWS Coordinator will begin
monitoring the rain gauge. Additional instructions will be provided by the IFLOWS
Coordinator or designee.
610 B – A flood response plan that specifies what to do after a
flood notification?
In addition to the responses outlined in the IFLOWS policy above another response involves using the
COOP plan to address mission critical functions of the City. The COOP is further explained below:
City of Richmond has become increasingly aware of how disasters and emergencies could
disrupt, paralyze or destroy the capabilities to preserve government and perform essential
governmental functions. Continuity of Operations (COOP) Planning is designed to develop
and maintain a program that enables the City to preserve and maintain its capability to
function effectively in the event of a disaster or emergency, which could potentially disrupt
critical operations and services. A COOP plan is designed to address the following events:
Loss of access to a facility or building;
Loss or reduction of services due to a reduction in workforce; and
Loss of services due to equipment or system failure.
COOP planning is one component of the City of Richmond’s comprehensive emergency
management program that addresses the preparation for, mitigation of, response to and
recovery from all hazards. By focusing on efforts to continue the essential functions of the
City, COOP planning ensures that the government continues to operate—even in the wake of
a major event (taken from the City Webpage).
28. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 28
610 C – A master list of critical facilities in the 500-year floodplain
and arrangements to special warnings to them?
The only two (2) critical facilities in the 500-year flood plain are the water treatment and wastewater
treatment plants. These 2 facilities have warnings issued to them via the IFLOWS system.
610 E/F – Are you a StormReady community?
Yes - Virginia Storm Ready
The City completed the recertification of the Storm Ready Program 2014. Attached is the Virginia
Storm Ready Communities webpage:
See chart on next page:
29. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 29
County: Gold Shading
Purple Shading: TsunamiReady
Purple Dot:
StormReady
University
Red Dot: StormReady
Commercial Site
Accomack
Arlington
Bedford
Botetourt
Buckingham
Campbell
Chesapeake
Chesterfield
Colonial Heights
Danville
Fairfax
Fauquier
Frederick
Fredericksburg
Giles
Gloucester
Grayson
Greene
Hampton
Henrico
King George
Lancaster
Loudoun
Lynchburg
Manassas
Montgomery
New Kent
Newport News
Norfolk
Page
Portsmouth
Prince George
Prince William
Pulaska
Richmond
Roanoke City
Rockbridge
Russell
Smyth
Stafford
Virginia Beach
Washington
Williamsburg
Wise
Wythe
York
University of
Richmond
Virginia
Commonwealt
h University
Virginia Tech
Busch Gardens
Kings
Dominion
Water
Country USA
Purple Plus
StormReady
Supporter
StormReady
Military Site
Fair Oaks Mall
George
Mason
University
Southwest
Virginia CC
Stony Point
Fashion Park
Twin County
Regional
Hospital
Virginia
Highlands CC
Langley
Air Force Base
Norfolk
Naval Station
620 A-E Does the City have a levee? Levee maintenance program
and a failure warning system and response plan?
Yes, the City has a floodwall/levee system. The maintenance program is outlined below:
City of Richmond Virginia
Department of Public Utilities,
Wastewater Utility
Verification Originator Prepared By Reviewed By Approved By
Name Robert Steidel Robert Steidel
John Hay
Clair Watson
Ed Edmondson
Grace LeRose
Chris Beschler
Date 23 February 2010 23 February 2010 24 February 2010
Standard Operating Procedure: Operations and Maintenance of the Richmond,
Virginia, Local Flood Protection Project to Comply with the Local Cooperation
Agreement Between the Department of the Army and the City of Richmond, Virginia at
James River Basin Richmond, Virginia (16 June 1986)
30. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 30
Flood Wall SOP – 4.4.6.1-001
Persons
responsible:
Flood Protection Superintendent, Director of Public Utilities, Deputy Chief Administrative
Officer
Floodwall Trades Superintendent
Deputy Director of Public Utilities II
Utility Operations Superintendent II
Area of application:
Richmond, Virginia, Local Flood Protection Project, North Side, South Side and Water
Treatment Plant
Document location:
Hardcopy in EMS library; Electronic copy in City of Richmond – Sharepoint Site Directory >
DPU Flood Planning > Shared Document
Original issue date: 23 February 2010
Revisions
Rev. No. Date Description
001
002
Recurring action items
Activity Responsibility Frequency
1. Submit a report to the District Engineer covering inspection,
maintenance, and operation of the protective works [33 CFR
Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(a) General (6)]
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Semi-annual
2. Inspections of levees [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(b) Levees (1) Maintenance.] Periodic inspections shall
be completed per subsections (i) – (xii).
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Immediately prior to
the beginning of the
flood season;
immediately following
each major high water
period, and otherwise
at intervals not
exceeding 90 days
3. Operation of levees [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(b) Levees (2) Operation.] During flood periods the levee
Flood Protection Continuously
31. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 31
shall be patrolled and inspection per subsections (i) – (iv). Superintendent or
designee
4. Inspections of flood walls [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(c) Flood walls (1) Maintenance.] Periodic inspections
shall be completed per subsections (i) – (viii).
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Immediately prior to
the beginning of the
flood season;
immediately following
each major high water
period, and otherwise
at intervals not
exceeding 90 days
5. Inspections of flood walls [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(c) Flood walls (1) Maintenance.] Periodic inspections
shall be completed per subsections (i) – (viii).
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Immediately prior to
the beginning of the
flood season;
immediately following
each major high water
period, and otherwise
at intervals not
exceeding 90 days
6. Operation of flood walls [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(c) Flood walls (2) Operation.] During flood periods the
wall shall be patrolled to locate possible leakage at monolith
joints or seepage underneath the wall.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Continuously
7. Drainage structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(d) Drainage structures (1) Maintenance.] Flap gates
and manually operated gates and valves on drainage structures
shall be examined, oiled, and trial operated.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
At least once every 90
days.
8. Drainage structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(d) Drainage structures (1) Maintenance.] Where
drainage structures are provided with stop log or other
emergency closures, the condition of the equipment and its
housing shall be inspected regularly and a trial installation of
the emergency closure shall be made.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
At least once each
year.
9. Drainage structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(d) Drainage structures (1) Maintenance.] Inspections
shall be completed per subsections (i) – (iv).
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Periodic
10. Drainage structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(d) Drainage structures (2) Operation.] All gates will be
inspected a short time before water reaches the invert of the
pip and any object which might prevent closure of the gate shall
be removed. Automatic gates shall be closely observed until it
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Whenever high water
(12’ City Locks Gage)
conditions impend
32. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 32
has been ascertained that they are securely closed. Manually
operated gates and valves shall be closed as necessary to
prevent inflow of flood water. All drainage structures in levees
shall be inspected frequently during floods to ascertain whether
seepage is taking place along the lines of their contact with the
embankment.
11. Closure structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(e) Drainage structures (1) Maintenance.] Closure
structures for traffic openings shall be inspected per
subsections (i) – (v)
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Every 90 days
12. Closure structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(e) Drainage structures (1) Maintenance.] Trial
erections of one or more closure structures shall be made.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Once each year,
alternating the
structures chosen so
that each gate will be
erected at least once
in each 3-year period.
13. Closure structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(e) Drainage structures (1) Maintenance.] Trial erection
of all closure structures shall be made.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Whenever a change is
made in key operating
personnel.
14. Closure structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(e) Drainage structures (2) Operation.] Erection shall be
started and completed before flood waters reach the top of the
structure sill.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Whenever high water
(12’City Locks Gage)
conditions impend
15. Closure structures [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(e) Drainage structures (2) Operation.] Inspection
during flood periods to ascertain that no undue leakage is
occurring and that drains provided to care for ordinary leakage
are functioning properly.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Frequently
16. Pumping Plants [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(f)
Pumping Plants (1) Maintenance.] Inspection to insure that all
equipment is in order for instant use.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Not to exceed 30 days
during flood seasons
and 90 days during
off-flood seasons
17. Pumping Plants [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(f)
Pumping Plants (1) Maintenance.] All equipment, including
switch gear, transformers, motors, pumps, valves, and gates
shall be trial operated and checked.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
At least once every 90
days
18. Pumping Plants [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(f)
Pumping Plants (1) Maintenance.] Megger tests of all
insulation shall be made whenever wiring has been subjected to
undue dampness.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Interval not to exceed
one year
33. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 33
19. Pumping Plants [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(f)
Pumping Plants (2) Operation.] Competent operators shall be
on duty at pumping plants.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Whenever it appears
that necessity for
pump operation is
imminent
20. Channels and floodways [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(g) Channels and floodways (1) Maintenance.]
Inspection of improved channels and floodways per (i) – (vi).
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Periodic but shall be
made prior to the
beginning of the flood
season and otherwise
at intervals not to
exceed 90 days
21. Channels and floodways [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(g) Channels and floodways (2) Operations.] Both banks
of the channel shall be patrolled.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Continuous during
period of high water
22. Miscellaneous facilities [33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section
208.10(h) Miscellaneous facilities (1) Maintenance.] Inspection
of areas used for ponding in connection with pumping plants
(South Side storage ponds) or for temporary storage of interior
run-off (Upper Shockoe Creek Storm Water Retention Basin)
during flood periods shall not be allowed to become filled with
silt, debris, or dumped material.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Periodic
23. The O&M Manual will be reviewed.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Annually
24. Training shall be conducted for all City of Richmond personnel
assigned duties within the flood protection project.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Annually
25. New City of Richmond personnel directly assigned duties within
the flood protection project shall receive training on the
Operations & Maintenance Manual.
Flood Protection
Superintendent or
designee
Within 60 days of hire
Procedure Index
1.0 Purpose
2.0 Scope
3.0 Responsibility
34. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 34
4.0 Definitions
5.0 Process
6.0 References / Related Documents
1.0 Purpose
This is the Initial SOP to document existing O&M manuals and actions to comply with 33 CFR
Part 208.10: Local Flood Protection Works; Maintenance and Operation of Structures and
Facilities and Local Cooperation Agreement Between the Department of the Army and the City of
Richmond, Virginia at James River Basin Richmond, Virginia (16 June 1986)
The Local Cooperation Agreement Between the Department of the Army and the City of
Richmond, Virginia at James River Basin Richmond, Virginia (16 June 1986) and signed by
representatives of the Department of the Army and The City of Richmond, Virginia states in
Article VIII – OPERATION, MAINTENANCE AND REHABILITATION: “a. The Local Sponsor shall
operate, maintain and rehabilitate the project upon completion in accordance with regulations or
directions prescribed by the Secretary of the Army.” Those regulations are found at 33 CFR Part
208.10.
The Richmond, Virginia, Local Flood Protection project was constructed to provide protection to
the City of Richmond from flooding on the James River. However, the construction of an
adequate earthen levee and floodwall, closure gates, and pumping plants does not provide
complete security for the City against floods. Flood damages will still occur if the project is
improperly operated prior to and during a flood event and if it is overtopped by events larger than
the design flood. In order to assure a high level of protection against flooding and to reduce the
threat to public health and safety, it is necessary that the project be carefully maintained at all
times and be properly operated prior to and during flood periods. The necessity for proper
maintenance is also imperative, since extensive damage or even the loss of life may be incurred
through failure of a critical element of the project at flood time, caused by deterioration or damage
that could have been avoided by proper maintenance. Faulty operation at flood time can cause
considerable damage and may nullify the functions of the entire protective works. Proper
maintenance and correct operation of the flood protection system require that responsible local
persons have a thorough understanding of the functions of the various units of the system and
the best methods of maintaining and operating the system. The potential for project overtopping
requires that the appropriate evacuation measures be taken as necessary during a flood event.
A complete set of manufacturers’ instructions, bulletins, and shop drawings and a complete set of
detailed construction drawings relating to the various phases of construction embodied in this
project have been furnished to and are archived with the City of Richmond, Virginia. All work by
or under the jurisdiction of the City of Richmond in connection with the installation of new streets
or underground utilities, etc., or in connection with the modification of existing streets and
underground utilities shall be carefully evaluated by the District Engineer, Norfolk District, U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers to determine their effect on the flood protection system as presently
installed and described in this SOP.
The City Environmental Policy, Administrative Regulation Number 7.1, I. Purpose, A. Compliance.
states: Comply with all applicable environmental legislation, regulations, municipal standards, and
City policies. Department of Public Utilities Environmental Management System (EMS)
procedure EP-4.2-1 Environmental Policy Procedure purpose is to establish practices related to
the development and implementation of the Environmental Policy for the City of Richmond /
Wastewater Treatment Plant. Under this policy and EMS Element # 10, Operational Control of
Critical Control Points and 11 Emergency Preparedness and Response, this SOP was
developed.
2.0 Scope
35. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 35
This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) provides the operation and maintenance
requirements that must be observed at the Southside, Northside of the downtown project
and the Water Treatment Plant, in order to assure that the project provides a high level of
protection during flood events. Maintenance and operation shall be provided in strict
accordance with the regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army and as amplified by
this SOP. The assets of the Flood Protection Project are detailed in the following documents:
Richmond Local Protection Project – Operation and Maintenance Manual for the South Side,
September 2009, Richmond Local Protection Project – Operation and Maintenance Manual
for the North Side, September 2009, and Richmond Water Purification Plant Flood
Protection Project Operation and Maintenance Manual, 1 June 2007.
3.0 Responsibilities
NOTE: in accordance with 33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(e) Drainage
structures (2) Operation, trial erection of all closure structures shall be made whenever a
change is made in key operating personnel.
FLOOD PROTECTION SUPERINTENDENT (DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC UTILITIES, DEPUTY
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER)
Name: Robert Steidel
Business address: 730 East Broad Street, 6
th
Floor
Richmond, VA 23219
FLOODWALL SUPERINTENDENT, TRADES SUPERINTENDENT, DELEGATED FLOOD
PROTECION MANGEMENT AUTHORITY
Name: John Hay
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
ALTERNATE FLOOD PROTECTION SUPERINTENDENT (DEPUTY DIRECTOR II OF PUBLIC
UTILITIES)
Name: Willie Horton
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
UTILITY OPERATIONS SUPERINTENDENT II WASTEWATER, INTERIOR DRAINAGE
SEPARATE SANITARY AND COMBINED SEWAGE OPERATONS, ALTERNATE
FLOODWALL SUPERVISOR
Name: Clair Watson
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
UTILITY OPERATIONS SUPERINTENDENT I WASTEWATER, INTERIOR DRAINAGE
SEPARATE SANITARY AND COMBINED SEWAGE OPERATONS, ALTERNATE
FLOODWALL SUPERVISOR
Name: Ed Edmondson
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
PROGRAM MANAGER, WASTEWATER, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL and
INSTRUMENTATION TRADE SUPPORT
Name: Glenn Lewis
36. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 36
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
TRADES SUPERVISOR, WASTEWATER, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL and
INSTRUMENTATION TRADE SUPPORT
Name: Barrymore Beckley
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
UTILITY OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR, SHOCKOE RETENTION BASIN, INTERIOR
DRAINAGE SEPARATE SANITARY AND COMBINED SEWAGE OPERATONS SHOCKOE
WATER AND SEWER BASINS
Name: Barbara Jackson
Business address: 1400 Brander Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
FLOOD RESPONSE TEAM PERSONNEL - PRIMARY LIST
Number Name Assignment
1 J. Hay Floodwall Superintendent
2 S. Hall Administrative Support
3 M. Anderson Pump Station Supervisor
4 D. Tuner Pump Station / Gates
5 C. Liles Pump Station / Gates
6 Vacant Pump Station / Gates
7 T. Hite SW-1 Closure Leader
8 L. Evans SW -1 Closure Crew
9 J. Warren SW -1 Closure Crew
10 G. King SW -1 Closure Crew
11 G. Johnson SW -1 Closure Crew
12 D. Fontenot SW -1 Closure Crew
13 J. Brown Vector Crew
14 C. Hockaday, Jr. Vector Crew
15 H. Todd SW-2 Crew Leader
16 A. Taylor SW-2 Closure Crew
37. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 37
FLOOD RESPONSE TEAM PERSONNEL - PRIMARY LIST
Number Name Assignment
17 G. Kealon SW-2 Closure Crew
18 A. Gullie SW-2 Closure Crew
19 J. Richardson Jr. SW-2 Closure Crew
20 J. Barbour SW-3 Crew Leader
21 S. Squire SW-3 Closure Crew
22 C. McLaughlin SW-3 Closure Crew
23 A. Pamplin SW-3 Closure Crew
24 T. Mahanes SW-3 Closure Crew
25 E. Morton SW-3 Closure Crew
26 R. Bradbury SW-3 Closure Crew
27 V. Reyes Vactor Crew
28 A. Lewis Vactor Crew
29 B. Jackson Shockoe Crew Leader
30 D. Myrick Shockoe Closure Crew
31 D. Burner Shockoe Closure Crew
32 D. Spencer Shockoe Closure Crew
33 M. Shampine Shockoe Closure Crew
34 P. Rawlings Shockoe Closure Crew
35 K. Faulkner Shockoe Closure Crew
36 A. Forbes Shockoe Closure Crew
37 L. Ford Shockoe Closure Crew
38 V. Hawthorne Shockoe Closure Crew
39 C. Jenkins Shockoe Closure Crew
38. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 38
FLOOD RESPONSE TEAM PERSONNEL - PRIMARY LIST
Number Name Assignment
40 D. Austin Shockoe Closure Crew
41 A. Hunter WWTP Closure Crew
42 P. Saunders WWTP Closure Crew
43 M. Hicks WWTP Closure Crew
44 R. Pegras WWTP Closure Crew
SECONDARY LIST DEVELOPED AS NECESSARY
4.0 Definitions
4.1 Superintendent: City of Richmond official responsible for the development and
maintenance of, and directly in charge of, an organization responsible for the efficient
operation and maintenance of all the structures and facilities during flood periods and for
continuous inspection and maintenance of the project works during periods of low water.
4.2 Flood season in Richmond Virginia: January – March and July – October
These months were determined as follows:
1. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management does not keep historical
flood records. The historical record links flooding with hurricane history which is
logical. In the 17th and 18th centuries, storms are documented in August –
October. In the 19th century the pattern was similar with one July storm
described. In the 20th century the pattern repeats but with two July storms. And
in the 21st century to date all storms are August and September.
2. The City of Richmond wastewater treatment plant flooded in January 1996 and
2010. In 1936 spring floods occurred as a result of heavy snowfalls and rains
over a significant snow pack flooding the James River watershed.
5.0 Process
5.1 The City of Richmond, Virginia shall operate, maintain and rehabilitate the flood
protection project upon in accordance with regulations or directions prescribed by the
Secretary of the Army. Those regulations are found at 33 CFR Part 208.10: Local Flood
Protection Works; Maintenance and Operation of Structures and Facilities. All operations
shall be in accordance with the current Operations and Maintenance Manual of the
Richmond, Virginia, Local Flood Protection Project.
5.2 Asset management. Flood wall structures and facilities shall be classified as levee, flood
39. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 39
wall, drainage, closure, pumping, channels and floodways and miscellaneous facilities
(Upper Shockoe Storm Water Retention Basin, Southside Ponds). Assets will be
evaluated following the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities master plan
process. From the master plan process, a 10-year capital improvement plan (CIP) will be
developed for flood wall structures and facilities for rehabilitation and improvements.
From the 10-year CIP, a capital budget will be prepared by the Department of Public
Utilities for each biennium. After approval by the Planning Commission, Mayor and City
Council, the capital project will be implemented in accordance with the adopted budget.
5.3 Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manual Revision. There are two reasons to change
the current O&M Manual.
5.3.1 Change in O&M as a result of a capital improvement or rehabilitation project.
5.3.2 Change in O&M as a result of a continuous process improvement developed
from the operation and maintenance of the flood wall structures and facilities
5.4 O&M Manual Revision Methodology by the Flood Protection Superintendent or designee.
5.4.1 The O&M Manual will be reviewed annually.
5.4.2 Changes identified in Section 5.3 will be incorporated in the draft revised O&M
Manual.
5.4.3 The draft revised O&M manual will be submitted with a semi-annual report to the
District Engineer, Norfolk District US Army Corps of Engineers, covering
inspection, maintenance, and operation of the protective works in accordance
with 33 CFR Chapter II, Part 208, Section 208.10(a) General (6) for review and
approval.
5.4.4 Upon approval of the O&M manual changes by the District Engineer,
5.4.5 Norfolk District US Army Corps of Engineers, the revised O&M manual will be
final and made available to the Flood Wall Response Team.
5.5 Training and Testing by the Flood Protection Superintendent or designee.
5.5.1 There shall be annual training of City of Richmond personnel assigned duties
within the flood protection project.
5.5.2 All new City of Richmond personnel directly assigned duties within the flood
protection project shall receive training on the Operations & Maintenance Manual
within 60 days of hire.
5.5.3 Testing shall be conducted in accordance with the regulations or directions
prescribed by the Secretary of the Army, 33 CFR Part 208.10: Local Flood
Protection Works; Maintenance and Operation of Structures and Facilities.
6.0 References / Related Documents
6.1 Richmond Local Protection Project – Operation and Maintenance Manual for the
South Side, September 2009.
6.2 Richmond Local Protection Project – Operation and Maintenance Manual for the
North Side, September 2009.
6.3 Richmond Water Purification Plant Flood Protection Project Operation and
Maintenance Manual, 1 June 2007.
6.4 Local Flood Protection Project to Comply with the Local Cooperation Agreement
Between the Department of the Army and the City of Richmond, Virginia at James
River Basin Richmond, Virginia (16 June 1986)
40. CRS Report - 12-18-2014 Page 40
6.5 Code of Federal Regulations, Title 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters, Chapter II,
Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, Department of Defense, Part 208 Flood
Control Regulations, Section 208.10, Local flood protection works; maintenance and
operation of structures and facilities
The following pages outline the failure warning and response and plan related to the City’s levee
system.
44. CRS Report (Date 12-15-2014 Complete Draft) Page 44
630 A, B - E Dam threats/failures (upstream)
There are no dams upstream from the city that pose threats or on the verge of failing.
