(ATLANTA) – Georgia Emergency Management Agency/Homeland Security (GEMA/HS), on behalf of Governor Brian Kemp, recently awarded a $1,390,790 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) project to the Douglasville-Douglas County Water and Sewer Authority (DDCWSA) for the purchase and demolition of eight flood-prone properties.

“Working with local governments to lessen the risk of property damage from natural disasters is a critical part of our mission,” said GEMA/HS Director Homer Bryson. “Acquiring and demolishing flood-prone structures allows residents to relocate and prevents them from enduring the ravages of flooding at these sites again.”

The amount awarded includes a federal share of $1,043,092.50. The remainder will come from a state share of $139,079.00 and a local share of $208,618.50.

This award is part of the FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides funds to state agencies and local governments.

HMPG projects reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from the effects of natural hazards by breaking the repetitive cycle of destruction and reconstruction. These funds were made possible as a result of the DDCWSA’s participation and adoption of the Douglas County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.