McAllen Awarded $1.35 Million FEMA Grant

Washington, DC – Congressman Henry Cuellar, TX-28, today (9/3) announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the City of McAllen more than $1.35 million to help alleviate flooding by providing necessary drainage improvements.

The total of the project will be $1.8 million, with FEMA funneling in 75 percent of the cost.

“We all know the serious flooding issues this part of the Rio Grande Valley encounters every time the area receives a significant amount of rain. This is why these federal dollars are extremely important. ,” said Congressman Cuellar. “I applaud Mayor Richard Cortez and McAllen City Council Members for actively seeking these funds that will greatly benefit area residents.”

“We appreciate Congressman Cuellar’s efforts because approval of this $1.8 million FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program project and the award of the associated 75% matching funds of approximately $1.35 million, will greatly assist the City of McAllen in addressing the infrastructure needs of the Retiree Haven Subdivision located off of S. 10th Street just south of Military Highway,” said Mayor Richard F. Cortez, City of McAllen. He added “Implementation of these funds will improve the quality of life for our residents.”

The project consists of the construction of curb and gutter, a storm sewer network, a stormwater detention pond with pumping station, and an outfall force main system.

Drainage in the McAllen area is limited due to lack of topographic relief, slow draining soils, and the absence of natural watercourses. Due to these natural restrictions, manmade channels and/or stormwater pump stations are the only potential means of stormwater conveyance, thus resulting in slow floodwater receding rates.