Bluffton Asks for Residents’ Input on Flood Damage

Bluffton, S.C: In an effort to better understand and plan for future severe weather events, the town of Bluffton is seeking information from its residents regarding the recent flooding damages. The collected data will not only assist in defining policies but also be part of the groundwork in planning potential future enhancements to stormwater management infrastructure comprising drains, culverts, and retention ponds. The information will also be used for reporting to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and for carrying out community programs.

The Survey

Residents who have experienced flooding are asked to complete a comprehensive survey. The survey is readily available both in hard copy and online. By collecting this data, the town hopes to gather firsthand and accurate accounts of the recent weather events which will help in emergency planning and making decisions regarding future infrastructure improvements.

To facilitate the completion of the form, the authorities have ensured it is accessible both in paper form and digitally, catering to all resident preferences. The online version of the survey can be found at https://arcg.is/10a5Sn

All completed forms, whether filled out digitally or on paper, are due by October 31, 2024. For hard copy submissions, residents are instructed to drop off or mail their surveys to Bluffton Town Hall, 20 Bridge Street, Bluffton, South Carolina, 29910.

Opportunity For Direct Conversation

For those who wish to have a more in-depth conversation about their experiences with recent flooding, the town of Bluffton is offering two public meetings. These meetings are arranged as drop-ins and aim to provide residents with the opportunity to directly communicate with town staff about their experiences, raising any concerns or suggestions they may have.

Details of The Public Meetings

The initial public meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 20, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Pritchardville Elementary School, 9447 Evans Way, Bluffton, SC 29910. The second, which will coincide with the Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival, will take place at the Town Booth at Street Fest on May River Road on Saturday, October 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This is a call to the community to join hands and consolidate information that will help the town better prepare and respond to potential weather threats and their aftermath in the future.

Bluffton’s commitment to enhance its stormwater infrastructure and emergency preparedness highlights the essential importance of community collaboration in creating a safe and resilient town, capable of both mitigating and efficiently responding to extreme weather events.