Mark Munden, Infrastructure Support
Coordinator
(919)733-0795
Libby Haggerty, Executive Assistant to the Director,
(919)733-5338
Actions Necessary for Implementation: The Permanent Housing
Replacement Program combines Federal, State and Local Government resources
with private sector partnerships and volunteerism to replace some of the
estimated 11,000 homes eligible for buyout under the Hazard Mitigation
Grant Program (HMGP). These
homes were damaged due to extreme flooding during Hurricane Floyd.
Although temporary housing helped alleviate short-term needs, these
displaced families are in need of permanent options, as little replacement
housing stock currently exists in most of the affected communities. With
representatives from other state agencies, non-profit organizations,
universities, community colleges, private corporations and volunteers, a
plan was drafted that local governments could use to begin building
affordable replacement housing. This plan was tested in the City of
Kinston. Wall panels are constructed by Department of Correction inmate
labor and delivered on site for assembly by volunteers and honor grade
inmates. These 1,080 square foot, 3 bedroom, 11/2 bath homes are currently
being built at a cost of about $35,000 per home and can be completed in a
few weeks. Nine homes are being built in Kinston, with plans to build
more. In May, construction
will begin in the Town of Tarboro. Additional communities, also severely
impacted by flood waters, are making plans to implement this program as
well.
Anticipated Environmental Sustainability Benefits: Local governments
are encouraged to use in fill lots with infrastructure already in place.
This will minimize sprawl and provide homes that are within walking
distance of churches, stores and schools.
Blue Sky Foundation techniques, like hurricane strapping are being
used to make the homes less vulnerable to high winds. These homes must
also be placed outside the 100-year floodplain and are being targeted for
homeowners who participate in the HMGP “buyout” program.
The Division of Energy is recommending energy saving practices to
better insulate these homes, which reduces overall energy consumption.
The Permanent Housing Replacement Program provides one cost
effective, hazard resistant, sustainable solution.