Early Notice and Public Review of a Proposed
Activity in a 100-Year Floodplain

To: All interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals

This is to give notice that Giles County has determined that the following proposed action under HUD’s Economic Development Initiative program and grant #B-23-CP-VA-1472 is located in the 100-year floodplain, and Giles County will be identifying and evaluating practicable alternatives to locating the action in the floodplain and the potential impacts on the floodplain from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands.

The proposed activity includes the paving of a 2.5-mile portion of existing Shumate Falls Road in Giles County from 37°22’36.109″N, 80°52’35.293″W to 37°23’52.608″N, 80°51’4.455″W. This represents approximately 9.1 acres. The existing road is gravel and serves local outfitters, an event facility, and provides access to two of Giles County’s boat ramps. The proposed activity will not disturb new ground. In the event of flooding, a paved surface will prevent sediment and gravel from washing into the New River and surrounding riparian buffer. The road serves as the sole ingress and egress to the event center and
boat launches.

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.  Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the floodplain, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate impacts. 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 Giles County at the address below, on or before June 2, 2023. Giles County, 315 N Main St, Pearisburg, VA 24134 and (540) 921-2525 , Attention: Missy Bray. A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 9am-5pm at the same address as above. Comments may also be submitted via email at mbray@gilescounty.org .

Date: May 11, 2023