U.S. Sen. Martha McSally (R-AZ) recently requested federal funding for the completion of the Rio de Flag flood control project in Flagstaff, Ariz., one of the state’s largest cities and a gateway town to the Grand Canyon, which attracts more than five million visitors each year.
“A significant flood event would have devastating impacts for nearly half of Flagstaff’s population and 1,500 structures valued at over $916 million in 2008,” wrote Sen. McSally, who was joined by U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) in signing a Jan. 7 letter sent to Lt. Gen. Todd Semonite, the chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and R.D. James, the assistant secretary for the U.S. Army (Civil Works).
Flagstaff requires the funding to mitigate potential flood damage caused by heavy rain or snowmelt that flows into the Rio de Flag, according to the lawmakers, who said flood control has been a top priority for the city and county for more than 30 years.
“Given the increase in FY 2020 funding for Army Corps construction projects, we ask that you include funding in the FY 2020 work plan to complete the project and ensure that downtown Flagstaff, Northern Arizona University, BNSF Railroad, and the historic Southside community are permanently protected from a catastrophic flood,” the senators wrote.
They also pointed out that both the U.S. federal government and the City of Flagstaff already have invested nearly $45 million in the Rio de Flag flood control project.
“… Delaying the project would be a waste of precious taxpayer dollars,” they wrote.
The project design is expected to be completed in May, thereby paving the way for the City of Flagstaff and the Army Corps of Engineers to complete the project.
“Completing the Rio de Flag flood control project will save lives, protect property, and increase the economic viability of Flagstaff,” wrote Sen. McSally and her colleague. “In accordance with all existing agency rules, regulations and ethical guidelines, we urge you to give this proposal full and fair consideration as you make this important funding decision.”