Early Notice of Proposed Activity in FFRMS Floodplain

No longer on display. Expired on March 03, 2025, 11:59 PM

To: All interested Federal, State, and Local Agencies, Groups, and Individuals

This is to give notice that the City of Waco Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) under CFR Part 58 has determined that the following proposed action under Title V of the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998 is located in the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) floodplain and HCD will be identifying and evaluating practicable alternatives to locating the action in the floodplain and the potential impacts on the floodplain from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands.

Paige Estates will include new construction of a 64-unit affordable senior multifamily development to be located on approximately 1.62 acres of previously developed land to be addressed as 826 South 11th Street, Waco, McLennan County, Texas 76706. As proposed, the project will include a single four-story, elevator-served building, associated parking lot, and outdoor amenities. The units will be restricted to seniors aged 55+ earning 30-80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI).

The extent of the FFRMS floodplain was determined using a 0.2 percent flood approach. The entire 1.62 acres consists of Zone AE (100-year floodplain) of Waco Creek. Impacts to the floodplain will include new impervious surfaces such as the building foundation, parking lot, and ancillary improvements. No wetland areas will be impacted. Natural and beneficial functions of the floodplain include flood storage and attenuation. There is minimal potential for historic or cultural resources due to a lack of known historic sites in the vicinity, however a Section 106 review is in progress. Potential summer habitat for the Tricolored bat is present onsite, however adverse impacts to this species and migratory birds will be minimized by clearing vegetation during the unoccupied timeframe between September 1 to May 15. Due to private ownership and lack of unique natural features, there is no expected public interest for recreational, scientific, or educational purposes.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the floodplain, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate impacts. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about floodplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by the City of Waco at the following address on or before March 3, 2025, City of Waco, P.O. Box 2570, Waco, TX, phone number (254) 750-5656, Attention: Galen B. Price, Director of Housing and Community Development. A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 8 am to 5 pm at Department of Housing and Community Development offices at 209 28th Street South, Waco Tx, 76710 and Comments may also be submitted via email at GalenP@wacotx.gov.

Posted Date: February 14, 2025