 $1.9 million to improve building code compliance and encourage a culture of resilient infrastructure){kind=link}
Lansing, Michigan – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has given the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) $1.9 million in order to improve building code compliance and encourage a culture of resilient infrastructure. Given under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) initiative, this grant seeks to strengthen the state’s commitment to lower natural hazard risks and assist nearby communities.
The money will be directed into a variety of strategic projects, including creation of specialized training courses and instructional materials. With an eye toward local government needs and building inspectors especially, these programs are meant to update and enforce building standards more successfully. The main objective is to raise compliance levels all throughout Michigan so that structures not only meet criteria but also can survive different natural obstacles.
“FEMA’s BRIC program seeks to shift the focus from reactive disaster spending towards proactive investment in community resilience,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak in a news release. “Investing in building codes is a proactive investment that will reduce natural hazard risk and support families and businesses across Michigan.”
“A strong building code framework is vital for the safety of our communities and the stability of the construction industry,” said LARA Director Marlon Brown. “These funds will help our Bureau of Construction Codes expand support and training to local code enforcement jurisdictions, skilled trades licensees, and design professionals while advancing LARA’s mission to protect people and support business growth.”
Funding for this project under the BRIC program comes from FEMA with a 71% contribution, or around $1.96 million of the whole $2.756 million required. The Bureau of Construction Codes will cover the remaining 29%, equivalent to $756,159.76. FEMA will also pay $95,238 to help with the expenses of overseeing the award applicants.
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Now in its fourth year, the BRIC program continues to expand its reach, having made $1 billion available for mitigation funding in Fiscal Year 2023 alone. The latest funding announcements in July 2024 highlight the program’s continuous dedication to create strong communities all around.
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For Michigan, this award has ramifications beyond only immediate disaster readiness. The state is setting a basis for more resilient building and safer living environments by enhancing building code enforcement and training. This not only helps current residents but also attracts companies and developers drawn to an area that supports safety and resilience.
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Individuals and interested parties are encouraged to visit FEMA’s official BRIC program page in order to learn more about the efforts sponsored by the BRIC program and the results of these investments.