Hey Miami! 👋🏼
As summer rains kick off and Miami’s streets start flooding, a comprehensive $2.7 billion plan is underway to protect the city from storm surges and sea level rise. The Army Corps of Engineers has spent five years developing this critical flood protection plan, which is now ready for Congressional approval and funding.
What’s the Plan? Multiple Lines of Defense for Flood Resilience
The plan focuses on creating multiple lines of defense to safeguard Miami’s flood-prone areas, including Miami Beach, Little River, and North Miami. Key measures include:
- Raising 2,100 homes and updating 400 commercial buildings to prevent flood damage
- Implementing adaptive management strategies, such as planting mangroves and expanding wetlands, to naturally divert water
- Protecting 27 critical infrastructure sites, including hospitals and essential services, from flooding
Breaking Down the Costs
The $2.7 billion plan allocates funds as follows:
- $1.5 billion for construction
- $214 million for engineering and design
- $205 million for construction management
- $165 million for real estate acquisition
The Impact on Miami’s Future
This flood protection plan aims to save Miami $1.2 billion in storm surge damage over the next 50 years. By making commercial buildings and critical infrastructure watertight, the city can reduce the risk of flood-related disruptions. While this plan is a crucial first step, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and the Army Corps acknowledge that additional reports and phases will be necessary to fully address Miami’s flood risks.
Stay Updated on Miami’s Flood Protection Progress
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and conclude by 2034. Stay informed about the progress and join community discussions to ensure your voice is heard. As Aaron DeMayo from the city’s Climate Resilience Committee noted, “It’s good from the ‘don’t let perfection be the enemy of progress’ kind of approach.”
By supporting this flood protection plan, we can work towards a safer, more resilient Miami for generations to come.