CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD HAZARD ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION PLAN

Transcription

1 CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD HAZARD ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION PLAN PREPARED BY CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING COMMITTEE HALFF ASSOCIATES, INC. FEBRUARY 2003

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HAZARD ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION PLAN Table of Contents... 2 Executive Summary... 4 Introduction and Summary of the Hazard Analysis... 9 Purpose Community Specific Information History of Flooding within the City of Friendswood History of Other Disasters within the City of Friendswood How this Plan Was Prepared Organize to prepare the plan Mitigation Planning Schedule Public Meeting Mitigation Plan Questionnaire Comments and recommendations from outside organizations Mitigation Plan Working Commimttee Coordinate with Other Agencies Meeting with Other Agencies to review common problems Establishing Goals Distribution of Draft Action Plan Assess the Hazard (Hazard Analysis) Map of Known Flood Prone Areas Known Hazards Flood Events Erosion Hazards Subsidence Elevation Reference Marks Assess the Problem Discussion of the number and type of building subject to hazards Structures that have received flood insurance claims Plan and Procedures for Warning and Evacuation Critical Facilities Wetlands, Riparian Areas, and Sensitive Areas Captial Improvement Projects Impact of Disasters Goals

3 5. Review of Possible Activities Preventive Activities Property Protection Natural Resource Protection Emergency Services Structural Projects Public Information Draft Action Plan Adopt the Plan Impementation, Evaluation, and Revision of the Plan Procedure for implementing, evaluating, and revising the plan Implementation, evaluation and revision of the plan Attachment A - List of Acronyms Attachment B - Public Notification of Planning Meeting Attachment C - Questionnaire Results Attachment D - Map Needs Assessment Update Attachment E - Severe Weather Events Attachment F - Hazard Analysis and Profile Worksheets and Hazard Assessment Costs Attachment G - Critical Facilities Map Attachment H City of Friendswood Flood Insurance Rate Map 3

4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In late 2001, the City of Friendswood committed to developing a hazard analysis and mitigation plan for the community. The City selected Halff Associates, Inc. as a planning consultant to assist in the preparation of the City of Friendswood Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan. The City of Friendswood is vulnerable to several natural and technological hazards. In order to address the hazards faced, the City previously prepared an Emergency Management Plan. The Emergency Management Plan is composed of a basic plan and twenty-two (22) functional annexes to support the basic Plan. The City of Friendswood s Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan will reference Annex P, Hazard Mitigation, of the City of Friendswood Emergency Management Plan. Additionally, the floodplain mitigation portion of the plan will be utilized by the Community Development Department to satisfy FEMA s Community Rating System (CRS) planning requirements. Mitigation is characterized as a long-term, on-going process. This plan seeks to address all hazards within the City of Friendswood, in both Harris and Galveston Counties. It provides general guidance related to hazards within the community and an overview of mitigation efforts undertaken by the City. In addition, the plan identifies potential problematic conditions and outlines corrective actions that the City will undertake to remedy the identified problems. Planning and implementation actions will be identified that are applicable to both pre-incident and post-incident situations. A Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan is more than just another planning document. It is a dynamic record of the community s recognition of its vulnerability to hazards, determination of the risks associated with hazard effects, and commitment to reducing the long-term consequence of hazards. The mitigation plan outlines mitigation goals within a community, identifies risk reduction strategies for hazards that threaten the area, and discusses the ongoing risk reduction activities undertaken within the jurisdiction. The City of Friendswood Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan is designed to meet the planning requirements associated with participation in FEMA s CRS Program, State of Texas Division of Emergency Management (DEM) Mitigation Action Plan criteria, and Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) Flood Mitigation Assistance Program requirements. The Mitigation Planning Committee was formally recognized by City Council on September 17, On February 19, 2002, the State of Texas Division of Emergency Management approved the City of Friendswood Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Planning Project to be funded with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds available as a result of the Tropical Storm Allison Disaster. The Mitigation Planning Committee first met on April 8, Committee members represented a cross-section of the City staff and input was received from both city employees and representatives of the public. The committee was composed as follows: Dan Johnson, CFM Mike Hodge, PE, CFM Planner-in-Charge; Deputy Director of Community Development Director of Community Development and Public Works 4

5 Terry Byrd Brian Mansfield Kaz Hamidian Jon Branson Ron Cox Clayton Stephens Ric Miller Consultants John Ivey, PE, CFM Diane Calhoun, CFM Carrie Furlong, CFM Fire Marshal/Emergency Management Coordinator Assistant Fire Marshal/Assistant Emergency Management Coord. Deputy Director of Public Works Director of Community Services, Parks & Recreation City Manager/Public Information Pipeline Safety Committee President, Enchanted Woods Homeowners Association Halff Associates, Inc. Halff Associates, Inc. Halff Associates, Inc. The Mitigation Planning Committee met monthly from April to October to prepare the mitigation plan. Each committee member provided input and guidance in plan development. During the month of August, a mitigation planning questionnaire was distributed to all residents in the City of Friendswood via the Focus on Friendswood Newsletter. The questionnaire was also posted on the City of Friendswood website and placed in several city-owned buildings for public access. The questionnaire was distributed in an effort to increase public involvement regarding mitigation planning and floodplain management. On December 11, 2002 a notice was placed in the Friendswood Journal announcing a public meeting to discuss the Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan. The public meeting was held on December 16, 2002, at 7:00 PM in the City of Friendswood City Council Chambers. During the planning process, copies of the draft plan were submitted to outside organizations and Other Agencies for comment. The organizations contacted included: Galveston County Emergency Management Office, Harris County Emergency Management Office, Galveston County Consolidated Flood Control District, Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Houston-Galveston Area Council and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Comments were received from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Galveston County Engineering Department. Throughout the plan development, the committee identified numerous hazards within the City of Friendswood. Each hazard was briefly discussed in the planning document. Of each of the hazards identified, the most common hazard events to affect the area were determined to be flooding events. To clarify the extent of flooding events within the community, the plan identifies the number and types of buildings in the floodplain, the number of flood insurance policies held within the community, and the number of flood losses within the City. The procedures for warning and evacuation during emergency events are also included in the plan. Critical facilities located within the community and their proximity to the floodplain is discussed. Finally, specific mitigation projects already completed within the community are recognized. After assessing the hazards and reviewing the alternatives, the Mitigation Planning Committee established several goals for the City of Friendswood. Current mitigation activities and other activities completed on an annual basis were identified. Documentation of each of the activities is included in the plan to receive CRS planning credits. Following identification of goals and 5

6 activities, the committee determined seven (7) actions to be undertaken or continued as part of the flood mitigation planning effort. The action items, responsible department, and associated costs are identified as follows: ACTION ITEM #1 Hazard Warning System The City of Friendswood presently (2002) operates six outdoor warning sirens providing coverage to approximately eighty percent (80%) of the population. Full coverage within the community would require the purchase of an additional ten sirens, to be located within the City. The committee recommends expansion of the current outdoor warning system. Responsibility: City of Friendswood Fire Marshal/Emergency Management Coordinator Budget: Total cost $160,000, approximately $16,000 per siren to be funded from the CIP funds allocated for the five-year period of Goal/Timeline: Purchase and install a minimum of one siren per year for the five-year period of ACTION ITEM #2 Critical Facilities To ensure continuous operations, specific city-owned critical facilities are equipped with auxiliary power sources. To enhance the level of preparedness, the committee recommends auxiliary power sources for all city-owned critical facilities (listed in Section 3.4). Equipping the city-owned critical facilities with auxiliary power will also allow for greater continuity of governmental operations during times of disaster or crisis. Equipping the activity building with power and increasing to full back-up power coverage at City Hall are top priority for critical facilities in FY The Fire Marshal will update the critical facility list annually to prioritize facilities that should be equipped with auxiliary power. Responsibility: Emergency Management Office Budget: Total cost to equip both buildings $55,000 to be funded from the CIP funds allocated for the five-year period of Goal/Timeline: Equip one city-owned critical facility with auxiliary power per year ACTION ITEM #3 Emergency Management Education The City of Friendswood Fire Marshal/Emergency Management Office will proactively educate citizens of all age groups. During 2003, city staff will make presentations as requested by school 6

7 district officials, homeowners associations, and various civic groups. In addition, efforts will be made to target other community groups that have not previously received public education presentations. The Emergency Management Coordinator will also submit articles for publication in the community newspaper and newsletter to educate citizens on the importance of hurricane preparedness and family disaster planning. Emergency Management brochures will be distributed at various community centers. The website for the Fire Marshal/Emergency Management Office will be updated with the most current available information. Periodically, new information will be added to the website as it becomes available. Responsibility: City of Friendswood City Manager s Office and City Fire Marshall Budget: Staff time (operating funds). News articles and website activities will be at no cost to the City. Goal/Timeline: Make presentations, publish news articles and post website information throughout 2003 and ACTION ITEM #4 Public Water System The City of Friendswood is located in an area with identified subsidence hazards. The water system within the City of Friendswood is currently in the process of an upgrade to improve fire protection capabilities and reduce the dependence on ground water sources. The City has addressed the ground water issue and has arranged for up to 6 million gallons per day of surface water to be utilized. Through a reduction in the dependence on ground water sources, the threat of subsidence within the area may be lessened. Responsibility: City of Friendswood Public Works Director Budget and Timeline: The total Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funding allocated for utilities during the five-year period is $24,325,912. ACTION ITEM #5 Major Thoroughfare Planning Implement the recommendations contained in the Major Thoroughfare Plan to improve evacuation options available within the community. The City of Friendswood currently relies on FM 518, FM 528 and FM 2351 to provide access to Interstate 45 in the event of an evacuation. The Major Thoroughfare Plan includes improvements to Brittany Bay Boulevard that would provide an additional evacuation route for the City of Friendswood. The proposed route parallels FM 518 connecting with Beltway 8 to the west and SH 146 to the east. Construction of major 7

8 thoroughfares includes update and upgrade of water transmission mains, fire protection, drainage, and sanitary sewer. Responsibility: City of Friendswood Community Development Department Budget and Timeline: The total Capital Improvement Project funding was approved and allocated for streets and thoroughfares during the five-year period is $4,312,477. ACTION ITEM #6 Elevation, Relocation and Acquisition Projects Conduct an annual evaluation of FEMA s Repetitive Loss List to prioritize and identify potential acquisition, relocation and elevation projects. The City Community Development Department staff will update the acquisition/relocation and elevation project list. The cost estimates for each project will be updated on an annual basis. Responsibility: City of Friendswood Community Development Department Budget: Staff time (operating funds). Elevation, Relocation and Acquisition Projects, when identified, will be funded by Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and/or Flood Mitigation Assistance funds. Any required local match (25%) will be provided by others such as the Harris County Commissioners Court action following Tropical Storm Allison in Goal/Timeline: The City of Friendswood is classified as a Category C community by FEMA because there are more than 10 repetitive loss properties located within the City. The City of Friendswood is also a Class 5 CRS Community and required to conduct an annual evaluation of all repetitive loss properties. Therefore all repetitive loss properties will be evaluated annually for possible elevation, relocation and acquisition projects. ACTION ITEM #7 Master Drainage Plan The City of Friendswood contracted with engineering consultants in 1993 to develop a Master Drainage Plan for the community. As part of the Master Drainage Plan, several sites within the city were identified as potential problem areas. The consultants analyzed the problem areas and developed potential solutions for the sites. The Community Development Department utilizes the Master Drainage Plan as a planning tool for future project development and budgeting. Approximately twenty (20) projects were identified for future planning priorities. Several of the projects have yet to be completed. Completion of the identified projects would alleviate drainage concerns at problem sites. Responsibility: City of Friendswood Community Development Department Budget and Timeline: The total Capital Improvement Project funding allocated for drainage during the five-year period is $3,921,042. 8

9 Introduction and Summary of the Hazard Analysis The City of Friendswood is located in both Harris and Galveston Counties near Galveston Bay. Friendswood is bordered by the City of Houston to the north; the City of Pearland, unincorporated Brazoria County, and the City of Alvin to the west; the City of League City to the south; and Harris County unincorporated areas and the City of Webster to the east. Based on the Texas State Directory, 2002 Edition, Friendswood has a current population of 29,037. The Houston Metropolitan Area has an estimated population of 3,400,578 in Harris County alone. The growth rate in the Friendswood/Houston Metropolitan Area is one of the fastest in the nation. Such rapid growth places enormous pressure on local communities. The City of Friendswood is vulnerable to several natural and technological hazards. In order to address the hazards faced, the City has prepared an All Hazards Emergency Management Plan. The Emergency Management Plan is composed of a basic plan and twenty-two (22) functional annexes to support the basic Plan. The assignments of responsibility for content and update to the functional annexes are as follows: Annex A: Warning Annex B: Communications Annex C: Shelter & Mass Care Annex D: Radiological Protection Annex E: Evacuation Annex F: Fire Fighting Annex G: Law Enforcement Annex H: Health and Medical Services Annex I: Emergency Public Information Annex J: Recovery Annex K: Public Works & Engineering Annex L: Energy & Utilities Annex M: Resource Management Annex N: Direction & Control Annex O: Human Services Annex P: Hazard Mitigation Annex Q: Hazardous Materials/Oil Spill Response Annex R: Search & Rescue Annex S: Transportation Annex T: Donations Management Annex U: Legal Annex V: Terrorist Incident Response Police Chief Police Chief Community Services Director Emergency Management Coordinator/Fire Marshal Police Chief Fire Officer Police Chief Community Services Director City Manager Community Development Director Public Works Director Public Utilities Director Administrative Services Director Emergency Management Coordinator/Fire Marshal Community Services Director Community Development Director Emergency Management Coordinator/Fire Marshal Fire Officer Emergency Management Coordinator/Fire Marshal Community Services Director City Secretary s Office Police Chief The City of Friendswood s Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan will reference Annex P, Hazard Mitigation, of the City of Friendswood All Hazards Emergency Management Plan. Additionally, the floodplain mitigation portion of the plan will be utilized by the Community Development Department for CRS planning purposes. 9

10 The most frequent disaster events encountered are widespread flooding events. Within the last eight (8) years, the City has received Presidential Disaster Declarations for extreme flooding events related to Tropical Storm Allison (2001), Tropical Storm Frances (1998) and the October 1994 Southeast Texas Flood. In addition to flooding from coastal storms, hazards such as tornados, wildfires, hazardous materials, droughts, utility disruptions, civil disorders, and airline accidents pose an increased threat to the community. Through proper identification of hazards faced and assessment of the capability of the City to respond to those hazards, the City of Friendswood plans to improve the overall disaster preparedness within the community. PURPOSE Mitigation is characterized as a long-term, on-going process. This plan seeks to address all hazards within the City of Friendswood, in both Harris and Galveston Counties. It provides general guidance related to hazards within the community and an overview of mitigation efforts undertaken by the City. In addition, the plan identifies potential problematic conditions and outlines corrective actions that the City will undertake to remedy the identified problems. Planning and implementation actions will be identified that are applicable to both pre-incident and post-incident situations. The Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan will be one portion of the Hazard Mitigation Annex (Annex P) contained within the City of Friendswood Emergency Management Plan. The adverse impact of hazards can be directly affected by hazard mitigation actions accomplished prior to the occurrence of an emergency situation. Effective post-event mitigation actions can also reduce the risk of repeat disasters. Therefore, hazard mitigation planning and implementation activities are an ongoing process and integral part of the comprehensive emergency management program. Reference Documents used for this plan include the following: City of Friendswood Capital Improvement Plan (Revised 2002) [Section 3.6] City of Friendswood Community Assistance Visit Report (January 4, 1999) [Section 5.1] City of Friendswood Comprehensive Land Use Plan City of Friendswood Drainage Study for Sunmeadows Subdivision, February 2002 City of Friendswood Emergency Management Plan, Annex A through V City of Friendswood Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (1973 to 1999) [Section 5.1] City of Friendswood Flood Insurance Study and FIRMs (September 22, 1999) City of Friendswood Hazard Analysis [Section 2.2] City of Friendswood Master Drainage Plan City of Friendswood Residential Building Requirements (August 9, 2000) City of Friendswood Commercial Building Requirements (August 9, 2000) City of Friendswood Proposed Major Thoroughfare Plan, July 15, 1998; Revised July 2, 2001 City of Friendswood Regional Drainage Study Mary s, Cowards, and Chigger Creek Watersheds, August

11 City of Friendswood Repetitive Loss Plan (Part of City of Friendswood 1990 CRS Application) City of Friendswood Vision 2020 Plan City of Friendswood Bond Issue, February 1, 2003 [Section 5.5] Division of Emergency Management Evacuation Map for the Galveston Bay Area FEMA/Harris County Flood Control District Tropical Storm Allison Flood Recovery Project - Off the Charts, June FEMA/NFIP flood insurance policy and claims records Harris County Flood Insurance Studies and FIRMs (1990 to 2000) [Section 2.1] Harris County Map Needs Assessment by Harris County Flood Control District (2001) Harris Galveston Coastal Subsidence District Studies and Plans National Weather Service Tropical Storm Allison Flood Report (2001) NPDES Joint Task Force (City of Houston, Harris County and TxDOT) Texas Division of Emergency Management Hazards Analysis Texas Division of Emergency Management Mitigation Handbook (DEM 21) International Building Codes (2000) [Section 5.2] International Fire Codes (2000) [Section 5.2] COMMUNITY SPECIFIC INFORMATION Geology Friendswood is located in Southeast Texas in an area described in the Physiographic Map of Texas as the Gulf Coastal Plain. Elevation ranges from 0 feet above sea level to 300 feet above sea level in this region. The City of Friendswood is located on lands ranging from an elevation of 10 feet above sea level along Clear Creek, to approximately 35 feet above sea level in the extreme northwestern section. Most of the City is located on land ranging from an elevation of 25 to 30 feet above sea level. The area is a nearly flat stratum with deltaic sand and mud soils. According to the City of Friendswood Flood Insurance Study, the soils within the City are clayey and loamy. Soils are characterized by low infiltration rates and high runoff potential. Description of the City Friendswood is a medium-sized city with an approximate population of 30,000. It was established in 1895 as a Quaker (Friends) Colony in northern Galveston County. The colony was originally a farming community of fig orchards, Satsuma orange orchards, and rice fields. The people in the community were known for hard work, strong morals, and clean living. Today the once small agricultural community is part of the greater Houston Metropolitan area. Transportation The City of Friendswood is located three (3) miles west of IH-45. The City is served by three major Farm to Market Roads, FM 528, FM 518 and FM The east/west corridor is FM 528. FM 518 travels northwest to southeast, while FM 2351 travels northeast to southwest. No railroads run within the boundaries. 11

12 Polly Ranch Airstrip is located within the community providing a private aviation location. In nearby Pearland, Clover Field provides a hard surface, lighted general aviation runway with fuel service. The Houston William P. Hobby Airport, served by eight carriers, is 15 miles to the north. Additionally, Ellington Field, five miles to the east, operates as a Texas National Guard Facility and also functions as a general aviation reliever and cargo field. Economic Profile Friendswood lies in close proximity to aerospace and petrochemical industries. Local economic activities range from small business operations to professional services. Professional services include medical, legal, and accounting services. Agricultural opportunities are limited within the City. The growth of the community has been attributed to major events including development and the Friendswood oil field and the establishment of the National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA) Johnson Space Center. Friendswood Independent School District is the largest employer within the City. The Texas Almanac classified the City of Friendswood as a bedroom community for the City of Houston. Approximately eighty-one (81) percent of the improved land within the City is dedicated to single-family dwellings. Most individuals commute into Houston daily. Many residents of Friendswood are employed at nearby Johnson Space Center. Galveston County is ranked Number 39 of 254 Texas Counties in per capita income and Harris County is ranked Number 6. The Galveston County unemployment is 4.9% and Harris County is 3.6% based on the 2002/2003 Texas Almanac. The 2000 Censes shows the Galveston County Race/Ethnicity as Anglo 63.8%, Black 15.54%, Hispanic 17.96% and other 2.7%. Harris County is slightly different with Anglo 42.84%, Black 18.53%, Hispanic 32.93% and other 5.7%. The City of Friendswood is predominately located in Galveston County but in either case, the City does not have a high concentration of minority or economically disadvantaged population. Climate The climate of the area is sub-tropical. Mild winters and warm summers best characterize the climate. The average summer temperature ranges from a high of 90 F to a low of 74 F. The average winter temperature ranges from a high of 62 F to a low of 42 F. The area receives an average of two hundred seventy-five (275) days per year of sunshine. Average rainfall per year is thirty-eight inches. Rainfall is abundant and evenly distributed throughout the year. Hurricane season, spanning from June to November, usually produces the heaviest rainfall events. HISTORY OF FLOODING WITHIN THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD As described in the April 20, 2000 Harris County Flood Insurance Study, the City of Friendswood and Harris County are subject to intense local thunderstorms of short duration, general storms extending over periods of several days, and torrential rainfall associated with hurricanes and other tropical disturbances. Flooding results from tidal surge along Galveston Bay caused by hurricanes, tropical storms, and stream overflow. After devastating floods of 1929 and 1935, the City of Houston issued a plea to Congress and secured a commitment for federal flood control assistance. In 1937, the Texas Legislature 12

13 created the Harris County Flood Control District and designated the Harris County Commissioners Court as the governing body. Over the past sixty-four (64) years, the Harris County Flood Control District has acted as the local sponsor for numerous federal flood control projects to protect the lives and property of local citizens. The City of Friendswood is an active partner with the Harris County Flood Control District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The partnership has resulted in numerous multi-objective projects that provide flood protection and maximize the use of public lands. In 1961, Hurricane Carla hit the shores of Texas. Carla caused tides of over twenty (20) feet in coastal bays and produced water elevations of feet along the western shoreline of Galveston Bay. Approximately 1.7 million acres of coastal land were inundated while over 300,000 people evacuated the area during this storm. Within the City of Friendswood, forty-six (46) homes sustained damages caused by heavy rainfall. On June 23, 1973, Clear Creek, Chigger Creek, Cowards Creek, and Mary s Creek flooded due to protracted rains. The storms responsible for the rains also triggered tornados within the area. The flooding event inundated roads within the City, backed up storm drains, caused erosion and road washouts. In July of 1979, Tropical Storm Claudette brought gale-force winds and heavy rainfall to southeastern Texas. Claudette caused severe flooding along streams and coastal areas. Tides were estimated between 4 and 5 feet in Galveston Bay. Friendswood was severely flooded after the City received more than 26 inches of rain. Friendswood evacuated between 800 and 1,000 people from low-lying areas. The Houston Post cited between 75 and 95 percent of the homes in the City were flooded, some with water to the eaves. Homes in the Clear Creek, Chigger Creek, Cowards Creek and Mary s Creek areas were most severely affected. A few of the homes in this area were completely under water. In September of 1979, torrential rains caused Clear Creek to overflow its banks. Many streets and homes within the City were flooded. The schools were closed and thousands of citizens went without telephone service. A tropical depression brought rains to the area in June of Heavy rains previously saturated the ground throughout the area, thereby increasing the flooding from this storm. Within the City of Friendswood, approximately 2.5 inches of rain fell between midnight and 6:00 am. Many streets within the community experienced flooding. In October 1994, flooding from an intense rainstorm resulted in a Presidential declared disaster for 38 East Texas Counties that included Harris and Galveston Counties and the City of Friendswood. In September 1998, Tropical Storm Frances, and a localized thunderstorm that followed later in the same month, resulted in widespread flooding. The Harris County Area including the City of Friendswood, received a Presidential disaster declaration for this storm event. 13

14 During the period from June 5 to June 10, 2001, Tropical Storm Allison produced flooding throughout Southeast Texas, Louisiana, and across the eastern United States. Rainfall rates in the Houston area exceeded both the 100 and 500-year rainfall rates resulting in over 50,000 homes flooded. Damages were estimated at $5 Billion and prompted a Presidential disaster declaration for 30 counties in Texas. The City of Friendswood experienced devastating flooding from this storm. The City of Friendswood received approximately 27 inches of rain during the six-day rainfall associated with this event. The following major tropical storm and hurricane events have produced severe flooding and structural damage along the Texas Gulf Coast [Portions of the list were provided to the City of Friendswood as a courtesy from Hurricane Consulting]: September 16-20, 1854 September 8-18, 1875 June 1-5, 1871 August 19-24, 1879 June 8-10, 1871 June 21-25, 1880 June 13-15, 1886 July 27, 1957 Hurricane Audrey June 16-18, 1888 July 24-25, 1959 Hurricane Debra July 4-6, 1888 September 11, 1961 Hurricane Carla July 3-8, 1891 September 16-20, 1963 Hurricane Cindy October 2-7, 1895 August 5-8, 1964 Tropical Storm Abby September 10-13, 1897 August 2-5, 1970 Hurricane Celia September 20-28, 1898 September 12-17, 1970 Tropical Storm Felice September 7-10, 1900 September 1-7, 1973 Tropical Storm Delia July 21, 1909 July 25, 1979 Tropical Storm Claudette August 16-17, 1915 August 30 September 2, 1979 Tropical Storm Elena September 14, 1919 August 3-10, 1980 Hurricane Allen August 12-15, 1932 September 1-7, Tropical Strom Danielle July 21-27, 1933 August 15-18, 1983 Hurricane Alicia August 26-September 1, 1934 June 23-28, 1986 Hurricane Bonnie October 11-17, 1938 August 9-17, 1987 September 19-25, 1940 June 24- July 1, Tropical Storm Allison September 11-16, 1941 July 30 August 3, 1989 Hurricane Chantal September 16-25, 1941 October 12-16, 1989 Hurricane Jerry August 30, 1942 March 5, 1992 Houston Area Flood July 25-29, 1943 October 15-20, Southeast Texas Flood August 24-29, 1945 July 28 August 2, 1985 Tropical Strom Dean August 18-27, 1947 September 1998 Tropical Storm Frances September 27 October 6, 1949 June 5-10, 2001 Tropical Storm Allison As described in the Harris County Flood Insurance Study Report dated April 2000, the Clear Creek, Chigger Creek, Cowards Creek, and Mary s Creek watersheds are of primary concern to the City of Friendswood. Clear Creek As stated in the City of Friendswood Flood Insurance Study, Clear Creek is the major stream within Friendswood. The watershed has an area of approximately 260 square miles. The stream is 45 miles in length and varies in width from 2 miles at its upper end to 13.5 miles in the midsection. The stream originates in Fort Bend County and forms the boundary between Harris, Brazoria, and Galveston Counties as it flows in to Galveston Bay. Clear Creek crosses the 14

15 northern and central sections of the City. Chigger Creek is a major tributary of Clear Creek and is a major flooding source for the City of Friendswood. Chigger Creek Chigger Creek has a 16.6 square mile drainage area with the lower feet affected by the backwater of Clear Creek. The character of flood events in the Chigger Creek watershed is more of a flash flood variety. Residential areas along Chigger Creek are subject to flooding with minimal notice and residents are not able to evacuate valuables out of harm s way. Flood damage claims including damage to both contents and structure have been filed in this watershed. Cowards Creek Cowards Creek is an intermittent stream with perennial pools from the confluence with Clear Creek in Galveston County to SH 35 in Brazoria County. The stream length measures 8.1 miles. The character of flood events in the Cowards Creek watershed is of the flash flood variety. Water quickly rises in the area and then drains into Clear Creek. Mary s Creek Mary s Creek rises in two forks in northeastern Brazoria County and runs southeast for twelve miles to its mouth on Clear Creek, at Friendswood in Galveston County. The North Fork rises four miles southwest of Pearland and runs for one and one-half (1½) miles to join the South Fork, which rises six miles southwest of Pearland runs for three miles to their confluence. Flat to rolling prairie in the area has been extensively developed for industrial purposes. HISTORY OF OTHER DISASTERS WITHIN THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD While flooding has been the primary disaster concern identified within the community, other disaster situations have occurred. Severe weather incidents including thunderstorms, hail, lightning and high winds are frequent events within the community. The National Climactic Data Center maintains records regarding extreme weather events. Since 1950, the National Climactic Data Center has on record three hundred fifty (350) thunderstorm and hail events in Harris County and one hundred thirty-two (132) thunderstorm and hail events in Galveston County. Severe weather events occur year-round with the peak season for occurrence during the spring and summer months. The most common time period for occurrences is between the hours of noon and 10:00 PM. The length of severe weather events varies considerably by event. Duration usually lasts from several minutes to several hours. When severe weather events occur, the cascading potential for other emergency events is high. Cascading potential refers to the impact of the hazard on the community and the potential consequences related to the event. Severe weather events are associated with the cascading potential for flash flooding, power outages, utility disruption, debris, and fire caused by lightning strikes. Thunderstorm events have routinely occurred within the City of Friendswood. High winds associated with these storms have damaged trees, downed power lines and caused property damage. The following high wind events have been recorded in the area: 15

16 May 8, 1995 May 30, 1995 June 1, 1995 June 4, 1996 November 24, 1996 March 14, 2001 In addition to problems caused by thunderstorm events, hail is also a concern associated with severe weather events. Hail events cause extensive damage to property and may cause injuries to persons who happen to be outside when a hailstorm strikes. Hailstones typically vary in size from a few centimeters in diameter to several inches in diameter. Typically, the larger the hailstone, the greater the amount of damage incurred. As with other severe weather events, hailstorms may occur year round. Duration of the hailstorm varies from periodic hailstones interspersed with a rain event to an extended hail event lasting minutes to hours. The following hail events have been recorded in the area: November 2, 1995 April 22, 1996 June 4, 1996 April 11, 1997 April 27, 1997 March 14, 2001 While natural disasters affect the community on a routine basis, the City of Friendswood is also affected by hazardous materials events. Given the proximity of the City of Friendswood to the petrochemical industry, hazardous materials events are considered to be a likely occurrence (event probable within the next three years). Within the City of Friendswood, fourteen (14) pipeline companies operate twenty-four (24) pipelines that cross through the City. There are approximately forty-seven (47) linear miles of pipeline transmission lines within the city limits. Products such as ethane, natural gas, crude oil, gasoline, ethylene, propane, methane, and propylene are carried through pipelines ranging from six (6) to thirty (30) inches in diameter. Pipelines pose the hazard of explosion, fire, toxic release and contamination. Within the past twenty-five (25) years, several hazardous materials incidents have occurred within the City of Friendswood. The following is a list of the hazardous materials events that have been recorded: 1977 Well blowout 1978 Large gasoline spill at a filling station Natural gas line severed 1981 Radioactive container found within the City 1983 Well blowout 1984 Brio Refining Site 16

17 1987 Well blowout 1988 Damaged pipeline/pipeline explosion 2002 Fire resulting in hazardous materials release The most complex of the hazardous materials incidents concerns the now vacant Brio Refining, Inc. site. The Brio Refining, Inc., site is an abandoned refinery at 2501 Dixie Farm Road in Harris County south of Houston near Friendswood, Texas designated an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) superfund site. The area is heavily populated. A housing development borders the site on the north. The site consists of approximately 50 acres of land. The facility was operated from the late 1950s to December Earlier operations carried out at the site included copper catalyst regeneration, oil blending and refining, and hydrocarbon (styrene) cracking. Previous owners or operators of the facility included Hard Lowe Chemical, Lowe Chemical, Phoenix Chemical, JOC Oil Aromatics, and Friendswood Refining. Past spills entered nearby Mud Gulley and subsequently, via Clear Creek, Galveston Bay. An inspection by EPA in 1984 indicated that shallow ground water was potentially contaminated with copper, vinyl chloride, fluorene, styrene, and ethylbenzene. Also in 1984, the EPA detected toluene, benzene, and other aromatic organic chemicals in the air. The EPA declared the site a Superfund Site in Remedial activities have occurred on the site since that time. As part of the Environmental Impact Study for the Clear Creek Federal Flood Protection Project, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) evaluated the Brio site. The USACOE must evaluate the impacts of the proposed Federal project to fulfill the requirements of Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management. 17

18 1.0 HOW THIS PLAN WAS PREPARED (CRS Activity 511.a) 1.1 ORGANIZE TO PREPARE THE PLAN In 1991, the City of Friendswood initiated the planning effort to prepare and submit a Community Rating System (CRS) Application to FEMA. The CRS application included preparation of a Repetitive Loss Plan. The Federal Insurance Administration (FIA) provided valuable documentation to locate and map Repetitive Loss Properties in the City of Friendswood. On October 1, 1991, the City of Friendswood received a CRS Class 9 from FEMA, which was upgraded to Class 8 on October 1, The City of Friendswood has initiated a series of planning activities to provide better services to the people that live and work in the area, such as the City of Friendswood Comprehensive Master Drainage Plan Phase I that was completed in November Phase I of the Master Plan included a detailed analysis of twenty designated problem outfalls. Each problem area was analyzed with preliminary engineering design and construction cost estimates to improve drainage to help alleviate the problem. Drainage system improvements have been incorporated into the City of Friendswood Capital Improvement Plan. Parallel with the City of Friendswood planning efforts are the Watershed Master Plans prepared by Harris County Flood Control District and planning efforts by the US Army Corps of Engineers required for the Clear Creek Federal Flood Control Project located in both Harris and Galveston Counties. Following Tropical Storm Allison, the City of Friendswood initiated a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Application to fast track acquisition and relocation of homes and business damaged by the flood. Two separate acquisition and relocation programs were initiated, one by the City of Friendswood for properties located within Galveston County and one by Harris County Flood Control District for properties located within Harris County. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TxDEM) requested applications from communities within the Tropical Storm Allison Disaster Area to prepare Mitigation Plans. The City of Friendswood responded and on February 19, 2002, the TxDEM informed the City that FEMA had approved funding for preparation of the City of Friendswood Mitigation Plan designated as Project Number DR In September 2001, the City Council approved procedures for preparation of a mitigation plan for the City of Friendswood. On September 17, 2001, the City of Friendswood City Council approved and recognized the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee. [For CRS recording purposes, the City Secretary maintains files of the City Council Meetings.] In addition, specific minutes from the mentioned meetings are maintained in the City of Friendswood CRS Files. In October 2001, Mr. Mickiel Hodge, PE, Community Development Director and City Engineer, in anticipation of FEMA and TxDEM approval, formed the City of Friendswood Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee and assigned the committee with the responsibility to involve the public and other agencies to prepare the City of Friendswood Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan. Mr. Mike Dominguez was initially designated Planner in Charge. During the August 12, 2002, Mitigation Plan Committee Meeting, Mr. Dan Johnson, was designated Planner in Charge for the Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan preparation. 18

19 On April 8, 2002 the City of Friendswood Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee held its organizational meeting. The committee is composed of representatives from various city departments dealing with planning, code enforcement, emergency operations, public works, engineering, parks and recreation, environmental services. Committee members representing the public include Ric Miller and Clayton Stephens. The committee is assigned to oversee the activities of a consultant hired by the City of prepare the Mitigation Plan. Committee members include: Dan Johnson, CFM Mike Hodge, PE, CFM Terry Byrd Brian Mansfield Kaz Hamidian Jon Branson Ron Cox Clayton Stephens Ric Miller Consultants John Ivey, PE, CFM Diane Calhoun, CFM Carrie Little, CFM Planner-in-Charge; Deputy Director of Community Development Director of Community Development and Public Works Fire Marshal/Emergency Management Coordinator Assistant Fire Marshal/Assistant Emergency Management Coord. Deputy Director of Public Works Director of Community Services, Parks & Recreation City Manager/Public Information Pipeline Safety Committee President, Enchanted Woods Homeowners Association Halff Associates, Inc. Halff Associates, Inc. Halff Associates, Inc. The committee meetings are conducted by the Chair, Mike Hodge, PE, CFM, and direction is provided by the Planner-in-Charge, Dan Johnson. Contact information for Mr. Johnson is as follows: Dan Johnson, CFM Deputy Director of Community Development City of Friendswood 900 South Friendswood Drive Friendswood, TX Phone: djohnson@ci.friendswood.tx.us The lead consultant on this project was John P. Ivey, PE, CFM his contact information is as follows: John P. Ivey, PE, CFM Vice-President Halff Associates, Inc Fossil Creek Blvd. Fort Worth, TX Phone: jivey@halff.com 19

20 1.2 Hazard Analysis and MITIGATION PLAN SCHEDULE, INVOLVE THE PUBLIC AND COORDINATE WITH OTHER AGENCIES (CRS ACTIVITY 511.A, 511.B, AND 511.C) The overall schedule of plan activities for the development, implementation, evaluation and adoption of the City of Friendswood Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan following CRS Activity 511.a through 511.j are as follows: Date September 2001 September 17, 2001 November 11, 2001 February 19, 2002 March 4-6, 2002 April 8, 2002 April 24, 2002 May 1, 2002 Project Action Hazard Mitigatioin Grant Project Application submitted to TxDEM for consideration City Council approved an recognized Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee Exxon Pipeline Table Top Exercise Hazard Mitigation Grant Project Approved and Funded Galveston County Terrorism Response Drill Friendswood Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee Meeting #1 Organize to prepare the Plan (511.a) Committee Members were identified A. Recommendations on methods to involve the Public (511.b) 1. Documents prepared to brief the public at future City Council Meetings, to involve the public in the planning process, and to establish a method for the public to provide input into the planning process. 2. A Hazard Mitigation Plan Questionnaire prepared that can be distributed to the public either by direct mail or distributed at Council Meetings. B. Coordination with other agencies (511.c) The City of Friendswood will take advantage of coordination meetings held with Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District, Harris County Flood Control District, the Association of Municipal Consulting Engineers (AMCE), the Harris County Flood Control Task Force, Gulf Coast Emergency Management Association and others. The recommended coordination effort will be itemized so it can be incorporated into the current routine City of Friendswood coordination activities. Hurricane Greg Exercise City of Friendswood, Galveston County and Upper Texas Coast. Submitted Progress Report #1 to the TxDEM. 20

21 May 13, 2002 June 7, 2002 June 10, 2002 July 1, 2002 July 8, 2002 August 2002 August 1, 2002 August 2002 Friendswood Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee Meeting #2 Assess the Hazard (511.d) Incorporated previous City of Friendswood CRS assessments and other hazards information that may be available. Public Questionnaire Format finalized for Citywide distribution. Submitted Mitigation Plan Progress Report #2 to the TxDEM. Friendswood Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee Meeting #3 A. Assess the Problem (511.e) 1. Incorporated risk assessment information available from TxDEM, FEMA, Houston Galveston Area Council and others. 2. Assisted the City of Friendswood Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee to review and assess problems. Set goals (511.f) Goals set and schedule established for the Plan including TxDEM Mitigation Plan requirements and future improved CRS ratings Submitted Mitigation Plan Progress Report #3 to the TxDEM. Review possible activities (511.g) 1. Summarized City of Friendswood Emergency Management Plan Activities. 2. Summarized Harris County Emergency Operations Center and TRANSTAR activities that meet the objectives of the CRS Activity 511 Floodplain Management Plan and TxDEM Mitigation Plan requirements. Explored similar Galveston County activities. 3. Reviewed the City of Friendswood Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and suggested potential improvements. Questionnaire distributed Citywide Submitted Mitigation Plan Progress Report #4 to the TxDEM. Draft the action plan based on the CRS requirement to address a minimum of two (2) of the required six (6) categories: 1. Preventive activities 2. Property protection 3. Natural resource protection 4. Emergency services 5. Structural support 6. Public information 21

22 September 1, 2002 September 9, 2002 September 26, 2002 October 8, 2002 October 14, 2002 October 16, 2002 November 2002 November 27, 2002 November 2002 December 2002 December 2002 Submitted Mitigation Plan Progress Report #5 to the TxDEM. Committee Meeting #6. Action items for plan were discussed. Review of questionnaires received from the public related to the Mitigation Plan. Discussed submission to Mitigation Plan Advisory Committee, Other Agencies for review of draft plan and comments. Establish procedures to implement, evaluate and revise the plan (511.j). Develop procedures to implement, monitor and revise the plan on an annual basis. Consultant submitted results of questionnaire to the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee. Forward Draft Plan to Hazard Mitigation Plan Advisory Committee, Other Agencies to review with comments and recommendations requested by November 15. These agencies were requested to review common problems, development policies, mitigation strategies, inconsistencies and conflict in policy, plan, program and regulations. They were also requested to review the community s needs, goals, and plans for the area (for a list of participants, see section 1.7). Briefing to City Council concerning the Public Meeting and the Draft Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan. Third quarter progress report submitted to TxDEM. Draft Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan submitted to TxDEM for review. Terry Byrd, Friendswood Fire Marshall, met with Tom Ryan, DEM Regional Liaison Officer, to review Draft Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan S Consultant incorporates TxDEM review comments into the City of Friendswood Mitigation Plan. ISO field verification scheduled to review CRS activities and assign credits. Consultant revised the Hazard Analysis and Mitigation Plan to incorporate review comments from: City Council, TxDEM, City of Friendswood Community Development Department, Other Agencies, Public Meeting, and questionnaires received from the Public. 22