To: All interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals
This is to give notice that the City of New Kensington has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11988 and 11990, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Wetlands Protection. The activity is funded under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) under the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
The proposed project is located in Memorial Park in the City of New Kensington. The project involves the reconstruction of the roadway entering the park and future park improvements (i.e. playgrounds improvements, facility improvements, etc.). The estimated total project cost is $74,875.
The City of New Kensington has considered the following alternatives and mitigation measures to be taken to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial values:
The first alternative considered was to do no-action. This alternative would not provide safe conditions for driving on the access road to the heavily visited Memorial Park. Residents who ride their bikes to the park are particularly at risk due to the severely deteriorated condition of the roadway. Other park amenities, including playground equipment and playground surfaces, are in need of rehabilitation to ensure the safety of residents of all ages.
The second alternative considered was to undertake the project at the Jurisdiction’s expense. Because of limited local funds undertaking this activity with local funds would unduly slow the process of improving infrastructure in its effort toward creating a safer environment.
The City has followed all required state and local floodplain/wetland protection procedures and has consulted with all relevant parties.
The City of New Kensington has reevaluated the alternatives to building in the floodplain and has determined that it has no practicable alternative. Environmental files that document compliance with steps 3 through 6 of Executive Order 11988 and/or 11990, are available for public inspection, review and copying upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments.
There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about floodplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.
Written comments must be received by the City of New Kensington at the following mail or email address on or before March 9, 2021: Mr. William Herman, Redevelopment Authority of the City of New Kensington, 901 5th Avenue, Suite 300, New Kensington, PA 15068 or RANewKen@gmail.com.
Publish date: March 2, 2021
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