Cape Coral's Committee of the Whole is discussing ways to improve flooding issues, particularly during hurricane season, which is just over a month away.
The committee is specifically looking at the National Flood Insurance Program. The program focuses on reducing the risk of flooding, which is particularly essential for areas such as Chiquita Boulevard and Trafalgar Parkway in Cape Coral. It also could save residents a lot of money.
Bob Vino, a Cape Coral resident, has witnessed flooding at Chiquita Boulevard and Trafalgar Parkway for a long time.
"I've been living in this house for almost 20 years. Over the years, I've seen that intersection flood at least a good half dozen times where it's actually come up here," Vino said.
He has even stepped in to help when the waters have risen to extremely high levels.
"There's like six or seven stalled cars. I've seen wreckers, tow trucks lined up for hours to go in and get people," Vino said.
Cape Coral is discussing the National Flood Insurance Program, which offers flood insurance coverage for homes. It can give residents access to competitive flood insurance and ensure they don't lose their existing coverage.
"I think, a couple streets up that way. That's another flood zone, so this area is not. But yeah, that would be if you can save money," Vino said.
The city said flood insurance premiums are based on many factors, such as proximity to water, rebuilding costs, and vulnerability to flooding.
Cape Coral, with its 400 miles of canals, is particularly vulnerable to flooding, making it difficult to maintain their ratings.
Charles Dodson, another Cape Coral resident, shared his experience.
"Every time it rains a good heavy rain for more than 45 minutes, flood from that driveway to that house right there is probably more than a foot deep," Dodson said.
The Community Rating System helps by giving those within the special flood hazard area a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums. Cape Coral received this discount after Hurricane Ian assessments and has maintained their rating since 2010.
Mayor Gunter asked, "Should we aim for a higher discount? What should we go next?"
Cape Coral's next visit to show continued program success with the Community Rating System is later this year.
Related:
- Gulf Coast News Special Report: Florida's Insurance Crisis
- Homeowners insurance is harder to find for some in Florida
- 12th homeowners insurance carrier enters Florida's market, but are rates improving?
- Florida's Citizens property insurance count grows
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