Nassau County Flood Study Infrastructure Upgrades

Nassau County is using a four-phase vulnerability assessment to guide decisions on stormwater systems and land use as flooding and sea level rise threaten the region.

A $40,000 Florida Department of Environmental Protection grant funded the project, which examines flood exposure, financial risks, and threats to environmental and cultural resources. Residents have reported repeated road flooding and insurance challenges, particularly after hurricanes Matthew and Irma.

The first two phases studied Amelia Island and western Nassau County west of I-95. Phase 3 expanded the analysis countywide, integrating stormwater infrastructure mapping with new flood scenarios. Phase 4 incorporated public input and identified priority areas for the county's adaptation plan.

The adaptation plan calls for stormwater system improvements, flood mitigation measures, protection of natural flood storage areas, and resilience standards in future planning. The Board of County Commissioners reviewed Phase 1 findings in June 2020. A final presentation on Phase 3 is scheduled for December 2024.