Overview. Section 205 of the 1948 Flood Control Act authorizes the Corps of Engineers to plan, design, and construct structural and non-structural flood control projects in partnership with non-Federal government agencies, such as cities, counties, special authorities, or units of state government.  Projects are planned and designed under this authority to provide the same complete flood risk management project that would be provided under specific congressional authorizations.  The maximum federal cost for planning, design, and construction of any one project is $10.0 million.  Each project must be economically justified, environmentally sound, and technically feasible.  Flood risk management projects are not limited to any particular type of improvement.  Levee and channel modifications are examples of flood risk management projects constructed utilizing the Section 205 authority.

Cost Sharing Requirements. The feasibility study is 100% federally funded up to $100,000. Costs over $100,000 are shared equally with the non-federal sponsor. Up to one-half of the non-federal share can be in the form of in-kind services. Costs for preparation of plans and specifications are shared at 65 percent federal/35 percent non-federal (Construction cost-share varies between 50% and 65% Federal, based on the type [structural or non-structural] solution). The non-federal share of construction consists of provision of any necessary lands, easements, rights-of-way, relocations and disposal areas (LERRD), plus a cash contribution of 5% of the total project costs. In the event that the value of LERRD, plus 5% cash, does not equal at least 35% of the total project cost, the non-federal sponsor must contribute additional cash to pay their share. If LERRD plus 5% exceeds 35%, the sponsor is responsible up to a maximum of 50% of the total project costs.

Project Process. In response to a written request from a potential non-federal sponsor, the Corps conducts an initial appraisal early in the Feasibility Study to determine whether the project meets program criteria and provides a basis for determining scope and cost of an entire feasibility study. The solution must be economically feasible and environmentally acceptable. If an acceptable solution is identified in the feasibility study, the Corps prepares plans and specifications, then manages construction of the project.

How to Request Assistance. For more information on our small flood damage reduction program, please call the Outreach Coordinator, at (912) 652-5781. Requests for assistance should be in the form of a letter submitted from a state or local government agency at the address shown below.

(LETTERHEAD OF LOCAL SPONSOR)

Ms. Kim Garvey

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Savannah District

100 W. Oglethorpe Avenue

Savannah, GA 31401

Dear Ms. Garvey:

This letter is to seek the assistance of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under (Reference the authority under which assistance is requested and identify the type and location of the problem.)

(Briefly describe your perception of the nature and severity of the problem.)

(Briefly describe the known issues which would affect the acceptability of any recommended solutions, from the perspective of municipal and local governments, and/or the public.)

We are aware as local sponsor that we will assume costs for lands, easements, right-of-way, relocations and disposal areas (LERRD) and/or assume costs to demonstrate ownership of such.  We also will assume responsibility for any operation and maintenance of the project. Your consideration of this request will be appreciated.  Please contact (name, address, telephone, etc.) for further coordination.

Sincerely,

AGENCY OFFICIAL