County: Palm Springs flood control project brings insurance savings to 514 properties

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a map revision that reclassifies some Palm Springs properties as lower flood risk, potentially saving homeowners and businesses in one portion of the city hundreds of dollars annually in flood insurance costs, Riverside County officials said this week.

The revision stems from the $16 million Palm Springs Line 41 storm drain project completed by the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. The project included over one mile of large diameter underground storm drain and a large flood basin that protected the Safari Mobile Home Park and Backstreet Art District during Hurricane Hilary in August 2023.

FEMA’s Letter of Map Revision removes 514 structures and approximately 102 acres from an area previously designated as having a high risk of flooding.

Construction was 90 percent complete when Hurricane Hilary approached in summer 2023. The Flood Control District authorized emergency work to make the project functional, preventing flood damage to areas that had previously flooded in 2017.

“This flood risk reduction project is the result of years of engineering, community collaboration, and major investment in regional flood protection,” said Jason Uhley, general manager-chief engineer of the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. “Its value was proven during Hurricane Hilary in August 2023, when the project successfully protected surrounding neighborhoods, including the Safari Mobile Home Park, from severe flooding.”

The updated flood map takes effect July 18. Property owners can contact their lenders to determine if flood insurance remains required, and if not, they may adjust their coverage with insurance providers.

The average flood insurance cost in Palm Springs is $784 per year, according to FEMA data. However, residents are advised to consult insurance agents to evaluate their residual risk before deciding to reduce coverage.

“Palm Springs Line 41 protects lives and safety and also homes and businesses from flooding,” said Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, who represents the area. “I am glad, through this flood control infrastructure investment, we were able to support Palm Springs with a project that is a major benefit for public safety and the economy as well.”

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