The North Miami “Repetitive Loss” Vision Plan is a city-wide plan that addresses the future use of North Miami’s flood-prone residential properties, or “repetitive loss properties (RLP).” The plan outlines a vision for RLP sites as a network of small stormwater retention parks that work in tandem to reduce flooding for North Miami residents.

If a homeowner files a flood insurance claim of more than $1000 twice or more in a 10-year period, their property is deemed a "repetitive loss" (RLP) by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Given the increased frequency of flooding and the impacts of sea level rise in North Miami, this phenomenon has become more prevalent. In response, through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance program, the City of North Miami acquired an RLP site and in 2019 commissioned a concept design, pilot project, and vision plan to address the use of future RLP acquisitions.

The plan outlines a vision for RLP sites as a network of small stormwater retention parks that provide multiple benefits. Importantly, this approach can reduce flooding, mitigate the impact of vacant or abandoned lots, introduce open space uses that contribute to broader community well-being, protect residents that cannot afford relocate, and restore habitats and recharge groundwater. The parks can also score within multiple activity areas of FEMA’s Community Rating System and therefore lower the cost of flood insurance city-wide. 

Rather than lay vacant, RLP sites can be leveraged as a form of stormwater infrastructure that is visible, accessible, and public-facing. Through dimensional standards, lot typologies, standard planting palettes, maintenance guidelines, zoning recommendations, and illustrated plans, this vision plan provides a roadmap for the city to develop future RLP sites into stormwater parks. Beyond the city, the document also serves as a model for other cities and communities confronting a similar phenomenon of repetitive loss properties. 

 Van Alen Institute, Urban Impact Lab, Forerunner, Inc.

North Miami, FL

Repetitive Loss Vision Plan

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