Hurricane season starts on June 1, and as officials gear up for it, WRAL News asked if the city of Raleigh’s stormwater infrastructure is ready for what the season could bring.
Currently, there are multiple projects underway around Raleigh, including stream and stormwater infrastructure updates, drainage improvements, stream repairs, and streambank stabilization.
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Officials with the city of Raleigh Stormwater team say more investments are on the way. The division received about $10-12 million in funding and starting the next fiscal year, they’re expecting to double that number.
When asked if the city’s stormwater systems and infrastructure is prepared for the upcoming hurricane season, Raleigh Stormwater Communications Analyst Ariel Buschel implied they are confident in the systems in place.
But the city is asking residents for help in strengthening their water supply.
According to the city of Raleigh, “The Raleigh Rainwater Rewards Subsidy Program offers 100% cost-share of project costs for property and rental owners in potentially underserved communities, non-profits, and places of worship. Collaboration with a range of stakeholders helped the City develop eligibility criteria to maximize limited funding to target communities that demonstrate the greatest need.”
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Through the program, residents and nonprofits can receive up to 100% funding back from the city for installations that can help improve water quality across the city.
Projects that can be covered by the program include green roofs, cisterns, silva cells, bioretention/rain gardens and impervious surface removal.
Officials told WRAL News that around 300 residents use the program, with 15-20 currently in the planning process.
Starting July 1, residents can apply and expect to see a minimum of 90% reimbursement back.
Hurricane season runs through Nov. 30.