Future Flood Mitigation in Charlotte-Mecklenburg

Abstract

This case study examines the successes of flood mitigation planning in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, beginning with their locally created future conditions flood risk maps, and followed by complementary risk reduction strategies informed by these maps. Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s future conditions maps, known locally as Community Maps, were created in 2000, because after repeated flood losses in the region, residents and local officials realized the need for better data to help “stop the bleeding.” This thesis takes a critical look at existing national level flood mitigation mapping and regulations, and compares them with Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s local strategies. It also looks at what ingredients have allowed Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services to achieve this success and where there is still room for improvement. Finally, this paper offers lessons and recommendations for national policy as well as other local communities to help improve flood management across different levels of government.