The community of Pin Point, Georgia, found just 11 miles south of Savannah in Chatham County, is a predominantly Black community. First settled in 1896 after the abolishment of slavery, the area is best known for its Gullah-speaking people and rich heritage. With close proximity to tidal marshes, the community has a growing risk of both tidal and pluvial flooding due to low-lying terrain. As part of the HDCW Joint Venture, our firm was employed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to quantify existing and future flood risks, including the impact of sea level rise, and to evaluate potential solutions to reduce flood risk while preserving the community for future generations.

Assessing Present and Future Conditions Flood Risk

Through the development of detailed two-dimensional hydraulic models in conjunction with the findings of USACE’s South Atlantic Coastal Study (SACS), our team created a series of computer simulations that incorporated rainfall, storm surge, and sea level rise to directly assess the growing flood risk within the community.

Engagement with local residents was critical to building an accurate picture of historical flooding to validate the models and understanding the unique culture and landscape of the community." Sam Crampton

Looking Towards a Safer Community

Following development of the initial models, our team simulated and reviewed an array of non-structural and structural solutions to reduce flood risk. The non-structural solutions included the elevation and flood proofing of existing structures to reduce the frequency of flooding. Structural solutions included the enlargement of existing culverts and drainage structures, use of flap gates to reduce the backup of tidal flooding into the community, use of living shorelines, and creation of new and enlarged drainage features.

A benefit-cost analysis for recommended solutions was also provided to USACE, which included construction cost estimates and losses-avoided to determine benefit cost ratios. This approach followed standard FEMA practices that would determine eligibility and streamline the data to support future grant funding applications. We made additional recommendations for eligibility for other funding programs and project opportunities that could continue to help bolster the community’s infrastructure.

This consisted of a resilient work force education program, aimed to develop regional expertise to implement future projects, and included the development of workforce skills for elevating and flood proofing structures by creating a regional trades workforce that reduces the reliance on out-of-state contractors. This has the capacity to create local job opportunities to improve the quality of life for the region.