The Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission will incorporate solicited community feedback to update the Regional All Hazards Mitigation Plan with adoption and implementation of the plan anticipated by September 2021.

The All Hazards Mitigation Plan (AHMP) is revised every five years to reflect shifts in priorities and progress in local mitigation efforts. The plan must be approved by the Virginia Department of Emergency (VDEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) prior to adoption and implementation.

The 2021 AHMP is an update of the 2016 AHMP.

“Refreshing the All Hazards Mitigation Plan ensures all of the localities on the Middle Peninsula are eligible to receive future Hazard Mitigation Assistance in the event of coastal flooding or another hazard that could impact the region,” said Lewie Lawrence, Executive Director of the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission (MPPDC). “The plan informs our ability to develop strategies and build resilience by helping residents recover quickly and efficiently in the event of a natural disaster.”

During mitigation planning, natural hazards most likely to occur in a region are identified and goals, actions and projects to mitigate anticipated risks are put in place.

The MPPDC hosted an online survey that was shared multiple platforms requesting public participation about local hazard concerns and mitigation actions. All feedback received will be reviewed by municipal, state, federal and counties entities and where appropriate, incorporated into the final plan.

The participating Middle Peninsula localities were Essex, Middlesex, Mathews, Gloucester, King & Queen, and King William Counties, and the Towns of West Point, Urbanna and Tappahannock.

The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2K) legislation established the Pre-Disaster Mitigation  Program and created requirements for the Post-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. DMA 2K requires local governments to develop and submit mitigation plans that serve as a guide to decision makers to commit resources to reduce risk from natural disasters. The final plan, approved by the VDEM and FEMA, requires an update every five years to maintain compliance with FEMA regulations.

A full timeline of the updated planning process can be found at mppdc.com/index.php/service-centers/mandates/hazards.

The Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission is one of 21 planning commissions in Virginia charged with promoting the orderly and efficient development of the physical, social and economic elements of the district.