The Federal Emergency Management Agency last week awarded Bridgeville Borough a $1.2 million grant to purchase eight flood-prone properties on Baldwin and Margaret streets.
A ninth property acquisition could soon be authorized following a historical review.
The grant is part of a FEMA hazard mitigation initiative that helps local governments purchase disaster-prone land at pre-disaster prices from property owners who want to leave.
After the 2018 Baldwin Street floods, nine local property owners applied for the program.
Acquisitions could begin this fall, said borough manager Joe Kauer.
“The borough hopes to have all participating properties vacant by the end of this year to begin demolition work of the affected properties,” he said.
The land will be converted to greenspace. FEMA rules prohibit the borough from developing the property or placing new structures on it.
Residents who declined to apply for a buyout in 2019 could get another chance. Borough officials may launch a second round of applications for people who have since changed their mind. Participation is strictly voluntary.