Reducing Flooding in Costa Mesa
Abstract
Flooding is a significant threat to coastal cities everywhere leading to infrastructure damage and safety hazards. Our team’s policy proposal outlines a detailed approach to mitigating flooding risks in Costa Mesa by enhancing water drainage systems and implementing green infrastructure. Drawing on statistics from past flooding incidents and insights from environmental scholars, our project proposal aims to improve the city’s resilience to floods while promoting sustainability. The challenges associated with urban flooding in Costa Mesa like other coastal cities are outlined, including its geographical vulnerability and the exacerbating effects of heavy rainfall and rising sea levels. Our proposal emphasizes that traditional solutions, such as dams and pipes, would be more effective with the assistance of green infrastructure. Green infrastructure utilizes natural elements that will not only mitigate flooding risks but also improve water quality, thereby offering economic and environmental benefits. Our proposed solution will involve updating drainage systems and creating retention ponds together with green spaces to enhance water absorption within a 25-year timeline. The feasibility of our project is assessed through considerations of site conditions, infrastructure design, and budgetary constraints. Funding strategies described include leveraging federal grants and partnerships with environmental organizations to reach our $40 million budget. Our cost/benefit analysis considers both monetary and non-monetary factors, such as reduced flood damages, improved community resilience, and job creation, while acknowledging the challenges of quantifying environmental benefits.
