Flood Plain Map Affects 1,900 Properties in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, authorities say undated flood plain maps will mean a change in the flood risk category of about 1,900 properties in the city.

Public Works director Dave Elgin says the new flood plain map designates about half of the 1,900 properties in a higher flood risk category and the other half in a lower flood risk flood category.

As of April 5, properties receiving receive funding from a federally-insured lending institution will be required to purchase flood insurance if they are located in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Properties that move into a higher flood risk category on the new maps are eligible for grandfathered insurance premium rates if purchased before April 5, 2010.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency published the current flood insurance rate maps for Cedar Rapids in 1982 and issued one revision in 1991.

Information from: The Gazette, http://www.gazetteonline.com/