Plans, Policies and Reports

Action Plan

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The Citizen Participation Plan is related to the use of U.S. HUD CDBG-DR funding in response to Hurricane Helene.

NC Office of State Budget and Management

Laws, Policies, and Procedures

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Laws

  • Public Law 118-158
    • Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2025 (Division B of the American Relief Act, 2025, Public Law 118-158, December 21, 2024)
  • Session Law 2025-2, House Bill 47
    • Appropriates $120,000,000 to the Division of Community Revitalization for the Single-Family Housing Program to be reimbursed with CDBG-DR funds.

Federal Notices

Memorandums

  • Memorandum 25-02
    • Published by HUD on March 29, 2025: Revisions made to the Common Application, Waivers, and Alternative Requirements for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Grantees: The Universal Notice (“Universal Notice”) published in the Federal Register (90 FR 1754) and Clarifications to the Allocations for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery and Implementation of the CDBG–DR Consolidated Waivers and Alternative Requirements Notice published in the Federal Register (90 FR 4759)
    • PDF of the Universal Notice with edits identified in Memorandum 25-02

Federal Reports

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2026

2025

2026

2025

Environmental Review Public Notices: Open for Comment

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Combined Notice of Finding of No Significant Impact and Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds

Publication Date: July 23, 2026

North Carolina Department of Commerce
Division of Community Revitalization 
301 North Wilmington Street
Raleigh, NC 27601-1058 
(919) 814-4600

This notice shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization.

Request for Release of Funds

On or about August 10, 2026 the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, to undertake a project known as the Harkins Avenue Subdivision Development for the purpose of providing low- to moderate-income (LMI) single-family housing units in the West Canton community of Haywood County, North Carolina. Project activities will include all necessary site work, utilities and infrastructure necessary to support the development of the property. Areas of disturbance associated with the proposed development extend along Keith Street through the intersection of Keith Street and James Street to facilitate the installation of a new stormwater conveyance pipe along the centerline of Keith Street and new public infrastructure and utilities within the Keith Street right-of-way (see attached Project Plans). The subject property proposed for development is approximately 5.97-acres of undeveloped cleared land in the West Canton area of Beaverdam Township in Haywood County, North Carolina. The estimated total project cost is $11,626,700, with an estimated $2,497,827.05 being paid with CDBG-DR funds.

Finding of No Significant Impact

The DCR has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment.  Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR), on file at the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) at 301 North Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC 27601-1058 and may be examined or copied weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The ERR is also available digitally by request.

Public Comments

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), 4301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4346, Attention: Daniel Herrera, Environmental Program Manager. Comments may also be submitted via email to dcr.environmental@commerce.nc.gov. All comments received before the end of the 15th day following publication will be considered by the NCDOC, DCR prior to authorizing the submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

Environmental Certification

The North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization certifies to HUD that Stephanie McGarrah in her capacity as Deputy Secretary of the Division of Community Revitalization consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization to use Program funds.

Objections to Release of Funds

HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization; (b) North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed by to Gerilee Bennett, Acting Director of the Office of Disaster Recovery at HUD at 451 7th St SW Washington, DC 20410. Potential objectors should contact the Office of Disaster Recovery at HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Stephanie McGarrah
Deputy Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Commerce
Division of Community Revitalization

Related documents:

Environmental Review Public Notices: Closed for Comment

Tab/Accordion Items

Final Notice and Public Explanation of a Proposed Activity in a Wetland

Harkins Avenue Subdivision Development, Haywood County, North Carolina

Publication Date: July 2, 2026

To: All interested Federal, State, and Local Agencies, Groups, and Individuals

This is to give notice that the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) under 24 CFR Part 58 has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11990 and in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C, Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The activity is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program. The proposed project is located in Haywood County between Harkins Avenue and Keith Street in Canton, North Carolina 28721 (Parcel 8647-83-7739; Coordinates: -82.870754, 35.540037) and is located partially in the wetland.

The project proposes the construction of approximately 18 detached single-family homes based on current design plans. The development will be situated on 5.97-acres of undeveloped, cleared land previously used for agriculture. Project activities will include all necessary site work, utilities, and infrastructure necessary to support the development of the property. Areas of disturbance associated with the proposed development will extend along Keith Street through the intersection of Keith Street and James Street. This work will facilitate the installation of a new stormwater conveyance pipe along the centerline of Keith Street, replacement of the culvert running beneath James Street just south of Keith Street, and new public infrastructure and utilities within Keith Street right-of-way. The existing neighborhood has experienced episodes of flooding due to insufficiently sized stormwater pipes and drainage systems. The proposed work will upgrade the existing system and develop on-site stormwater control measures to reduce strain on the drainage infrastructure. 

The proposed project area contains an area of NWI-mapped Riverine wetland, classified as R4SBC, defined as a seasonally or intermittently flooded channel which contains flowing water only part of the year. This wetland is located on the southern edge of the property which drains into the partially culverted channel running parallel along the south side of Keith Street. Riverine systems are critical for nutrient cycling and providing passage for migratory aquatic species, while also maintaining water flow and quality in watersheds. They act as natural water filters, slowing surface runoff, storing floodwater, and trapping sediment and nutrients, which improves water quality. This channelized wetland system extends beyond Keith Street and connects to a much larger wetland area surrounding Patton Branch and eventually drains into the Pigeon River to the northwest. The proposed project has the potential to directly impact approximately 0.27 acres of wetlands located along the southern edge of the property being developed. While proposed work along Keith St. has potential to directly impact another 0.50 acres of wetlands along the southern edge of Keith St., indirect construction impacts to these wetland areas directly adjacent to planned work may also occur. Additionally, the project has the potential to indirectly impact offsite wetlands west of James Street along the Patton Branch as stormwater from the project area is conveyed towards the Pigeon River.   

The DCR has considered the following alternatives and mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the existing wetland:

Alternative 1 – Locate the project outside of wetlands at an alternative site.  Identifying a viable new site would involve significant logistical challenges and costs, including land acquisition and modifications to infrastructure and utilities. Additionally, the selected location must meet the Program’s national objective criteria and be feasible in terms of cost and constructability to achieve the Program’s affordability and performance objectives. While identifying a site outside of wetlands may be practicable, given the limited extent and type of wetlands to be impacted by this project, relocating the entirety of the project outside of wetlands would have a very minimal benefit in terms of protecting and preserving wetlands. Construction in a different location may require additional work to connect to existing utility systems, which may be cost-prohibitive and could unnecessarily impede efforts to increase the stock of safe affordable housing in this community. Therefore, this alternative was rejected.

Alternative 2 – Evaluate alternative design(s) to limit impacts to the wetlands. One of the design alternatives considered was the construction of twenty-three single family homes in a different configuration on the subject property. The design incorporated a stormwater management system fully contained within the property and consisted of a series of stormwater control structures designed to collect, store and manage stormwater onsite without the need to construct a detention basin. As a result, work within the wetland was limited to construction of the access road and utility connections in the southwest corner of the property. While this design allowed for additional houses on the southern side of the lot (compared to the current layout) with less infringement on wetlands, it also restricted the size and efficacy of planned stormwater control measures. This alternative design would add additional housing at the cost of increasing the strain on the already overburdened drainage system. Based on the historic drainage issues and periodic flooding episodes in the adjacent neighborhood, any increase in stormwater without making improvements to the existing drainage system is likely to adversely impact the surrounding community. Therefore, this alternative design was rejected.

Alternative 3 - No Action Alternative. The alternative to not approve any action, essentially a “No Action” alternative means that the proposed project would not be implemented, and additional housing would not be constructed. Following extensive damage from Tropical Storm Fred in 2021, affordable housing has become a scarce commodity in this area of Haywood County. This alternative would fail to address the need for safe and affordable housing in the West Canton area, which currently has insufficient stock of housing. As the “No Action” Alternative does not provide a solution to the housing crisis, this alternative does not provide any benefit and was therefore rejected.

The following mitigation measures and standards have been identified to minimize adverse impacts and benefit wetland values:

  1. The project will incorporate Low Impact Development (LID) technologies as practicable into the design and construction of the subdivision and residences to help mitigate some of the stormwater runoff resulting from increased impervious surfaces. 
  2. As necessary, the project will include an erosion and sedimentation control plan filed with the Regional Land and Quality section office a minimum of 30 days prior to beginning of construction activities as part of a NPDES construction stormwater permit. The plan will be in accordance with all state and local approved stormwater program. 
  3. As required for impacts to jurisdictional streams or wetlands, a Section 404 permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers and corresponding Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the Division of Water Resources will be obtained. Regardless of permitting requirements, all activities will be conducted in compliance with North Carolina Surface Water and Wetland Standards found in 15A NCAC 02B.0200 and .0231, including adherence to turbidity standards. Appropriate best management practices will be employed when working around streams and wetlands to ensure compliance with the standards. 
  4. The project will implement all Best Management Practices (BMP) associated with applicable federal and/or state permits during construction to minimize sedimentation in streams. 
  5. The proposed project will not involve the broad application of pesticides or herbicides. 

The DCR has reevaluated alternatives to building in wetlands and has determined that it has no practicable alternative. Environmental files documenting compliance with Executive Order 11990 and 24 CFR 55, are available for public inspection, review and copying upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments. 

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about wetlands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in a wetland, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) at the following address on or before July 10, 2026 [a minimum 7 calendar day comment period will begin the day after the publication and end on the 8th day after the publication]: North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), 4301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4346, Attention: Daniel Herrera, Environmental Program Manager. A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the same address as above and on the DCR website. Comments may also be submitted via email to dcr.environmental@commerce.nc.gov. 

Related documents:

Early Notice and Public Review of a Proposed Activity in a Wetland

Harkins Avenue Subdivision Development

Haywood County, North Carolina

To: All interested Federal, State, and Local Agencies, Groups and Individuals

This is to give notice that the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) under 24 CFR Part 58 has determined that the following proposed action is located in wetlands, and DCR will be identifying and evaluating practicable alternatives to locating the action within the wetland, and the potential impacts on the wetland from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988 and Executive Order 11990 and in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C, Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The proposed project is located in Haywood County between Harkins Avenue and Keith Street in Canton, North Carolina 28721 (Parcel 8647-83-7739; Coordinates: -82.870754, 35.540037).

The project proposes constructing approximately 18 detached single-family homes based on current design plans. The development will be situated on 5.97-acres of undeveloped, cleared land previously used for agriculture. Project activities will include all necessary site work, utilities, and infrastructure necessary to support the development of the property. Areas of disturbance associated with the proposed development will extend along Keith Street through the intersection of Keith Street and James Street. This work will facilitate the installation of a new stormwater conveyance pipe along the centerline of Keith Street, replacement of the culvert running beneath James Street just south of Keith Street, and new public infrastructure and utilities within Keith Street right-of-way.

The proposed project area contains an area of NWI-mapped Riverine wetland, classified as R4SBC, defined as a seasonally or intermittently flooded channel which contains flowing water only part of the year. This wetland is located on the southern edge of the property which drains into the partially culverted channel running parallel along the south side of Keith Street. Riverine systems are critical for nutrient cycling and providing passage for migratory aquatic species, while also maintaining water flow and quality in watersheds. They act as natural water filters, slowing surface runoff, storing floodwater, and trapping sediment and nutrients, which improves water quality. This channelized wetland system extends beyond Keith Street and connects to a much larger wetland area surrounding Patton Branch and eventually drains into the Pigeon River to the northwest. The proposed project has the potential to directly impact approximately 0.27 acres of wetlands located along the southern edge of the property being developed. While proposed work along Keith St. has potential to directly impact another 0.50 acres of wetlands along the southern edge of Keith St. Indirect construction impacts to these wetland areas directly adjacent to planned work may also occur. Additionally, the project has the potential to indirectly impact offsite wetlands west of James Street along the Patton Branch as stormwater from the project area is conveyed towards the Pigeon River.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in the wetland and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the wetland, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate project impacts on the wetland. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comments about the wetland can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in a wetland, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) at the following address on or before July 1, 2026 [a minimum 15 calendar day comment period will begin the day after the publication and end on the 16th day after the publication]: 

North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC)
Division of Community Revitalization (DCR)
4301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh NC 27699-4346
Attention: Daniel Herrera, Environmental Program Manager 

A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the same address as above and on the DCR website. Comments may also be submitted via email to dcr.environmental@commerce.nc.gov.

Publication Date: June 15, 2026

Related Documents:

Final Notice and Public Explanation of a Proposed Activity in a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard Designated Floodplain or Wetland: Mountain Ecoregion

Date: April 30, 2026 

To: All interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals

This is to give notice that North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), as the responsible entity under 24 CFR Part 58, has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Orders 11988, as amended by Executive Order 13690, and Executive Order 11990, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Wetlands Protection. Although Executive Order 13690 was revoked on January 20, 2025, projects receiving HUD funding still must comply with the FFRMS standards in accordance with HUD’s Final Rule, published on April 23, 2024. The activity is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program.  

DCR is proposing to implement the additional single-family (1-4 unit) housing recovery programs of Buyout (including demolition for redevelopment and return to greenspace) and Relocation of program homes (both within an existing lot or onto a previously undisturbed lot). DCR previously considered the housing recovery programs including Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of single-family (1-4 unit) Housing. Collectively, these programs are part of the Renew NC program. Their goal is to assist homeowners and rental unit owners and tenants that have been and continue to be affected by Hurricane Helene. Renew NC intends to facilitate the buyout, reimbursement, rehabilitation, relocation, and reconstruction of single-family housing units (residential dwellings with a maximum of 1-4 units per property/activity) damaged by Hurricane Helene. Although individual project locations are not known at this time, project sites will be located within the eligible Program area, which is comprised of sixteen (16) counties, specifically, the counties of Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, and Yancey; and the sovereign lands of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), known as the Qualla Boundary. DCR is preparing reevaluations of the tiered environmental reviews based on the additional scope items to eliminate redundancy and improve efficiency in evaluating potential impacts of these programs. Under this tiering approach, the sixteen (16) counties and the Qualla Boundary have been grouped into the Mountain Ecoregion, which has been evaluated for potential impacts at a Tier 1 Environmental Assessment level of review. This region is a widely accepted boundary for conservation planning efforts and is commonly used in organizing, interpreting and reporting information about land-use dynamics.    

Although individual project locations are not known at this time, the extent of the floodplain at individual project sites will be determined using the best available data, using either the 0.2 percent flood approach or the freeboard value approach and preliminary and effective flood hazard maps to identify the most protective flood elevation. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps will be utilized as a potential indicator of wetlands in addition to assessing each individual project site for the presence of wetland indicators including vegetation, soil, and hydrology representative of the types of wetlands found in the ecoregion.

The scope of the proposed construction-related activities may consist of major and minor rehabilitation, reconstruction, relocation (involving demolition of a structure on the storm-damaged property and new construction on a previously disturbed or undisturbed lot in a location of lesser risk of storm damage), elevation, demolition substantially conforming to the existing footprint of each damaged structure or developed lot, acquisition of previously residential developed land, and repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges. For projects that do not involve relocation, any ground disturbance will occur substantially within the original footprint of the damaged/previous structure and associated private roads, bridges and utilities. For properties in the floodplain, floodway, or other areas at-risk due to environmental conditions, property owners may opt for voluntary buyout, in which case, properties will be cleared of all structures and above ground improvements as necessary for consistency with open space and floodplain management principles. In cases where a damaged property is deemed unsuitable or unavailable for rehabilitation or reconstruction due to land loss, soil stability, loss of lease or other factors, Renew NC may decide to relocate the same eligible activity to another area (relocation). In the case of relocation, homes will be placed on existing lots or previously undisturbed lots to locations of lesser risk of storm damage including outside of the FFRMS floodplain and wetlands, where possible.

DCR has determined that the proposed project activities could affect up to an estimated total of 4000 acres (based on an estimated 4000 applicants, and each project site being approximately 1-acre in size on average) with a substantial portion of these activities anticipated to be located within the FFRMS floodplain. Although the Programs anticipate the majority of project activities to consist of rehabilitation, reconstruction, buyout (for demolition and/or return to greenspace) and potential relocation of residential structures within the footprint of previously developed areas, which would have no impact on wetlands, projects involving the repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges and relocation of program homes onto previously undisturbed lots may occur in, and potentially impact, Waters of the US, including wetlands.

DCR has identified and evaluated potential alternatives and mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the existing floodplains and/or wetlands. Alternatives considered include 1) not implementing the proposed action in the designated floodplain, 2) commissioning infrastructure projects to achieve community-wide flood protection, 3) exclusively implementing acquisition of damaged structures in the designated floodplain for demolition and conversion to green space, and 4) relocating all projects outside of the designated floodplain. These alternatives were rejected as sole alternatives to the proposed action, because they do not support the Programs’ goal of meeting unmet housing needs by providing safe and sanitary housing to disaster-impacted property owners within the available program budget. Having incorporated the alternatives and mitigation measures into the proposed project to the extent feasible, DCR has determined there is no practicable alternative to locating the proposed project in the designated floodplain and/or wetlands due to 1) the need to restore safe, sanitary and affordable housing within the disaster-impacted community; 2) the desire to not unduly displace residents, disconnecting them from their economic and social networks; 3) the need to enact economically viable and fiscally responsible programs within federal CDBG-DR allocation limits; and 4) the limited scope and impact of the proposed project combined with the Programs’ ability to mitigate and minimize impacts on human health, public property floodplain values, and wetlands.

The Programs will be designed to minimize adverse impacts to lives and property, mitigate and avoid adverse impacts within the floodplain, and where feasible, restore the natural and beneficial values of the floodplain. The Programs will also require that all reconstruction and repair of substantially damaged structures in the floodplain adhere to the elevation requirements defined in 24 CFR 55.20(e)(1), and all participants with property in the 100-year floodplain as shown on the effective Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) will obtain and maintain flood insurance on the subject structure in perpetuity. Acquired properties in the floodplain, floodway, or other areas at-risk due to environmental conditions will be cleared of all structures and above ground improvements, consistent with open space and floodplain management principles. As such, this activity would minimize adverse impacts to lives and property and restore and preserve the natural and beneficial values of floodplains and may reduce future flood risk within the community. Lastly, Renew NC will incorporate Best Management Practices (BMPs) to the greatest extent feasible during construction activities to help minimize impacts to natural areas including floodplains and wetlands. These BMPs may include but are not limited to revegetating disturbed areas with a native seed mix, using temporary construction fencing to delineate and direct work away from sensitive areas, minimizing the footprint of any stream access, and using effective erosion and sedimentation control measures. The Programs will comply with all state and local floodplain and wetland protection procedures.

Therefore, DCR has reevaluated alternatives to building in floodplains and/or wetlands and determined that it has no practicable alternative to floodplains and/or wetlands development. Environmental files documenting compliance with Executive Order 11988, Executive Order 11990, and 24 CFR Part 55 are available for public inspection, review, and copying upon request as stated in the last paragraph of this notice.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and/or wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about floodplains and/or wetlands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains and/or wetlands, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by the Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), at the following address, on or before May 8, 2026: 

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4329 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Additional project information is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, 430 N. Salisbury St. Ste 4140, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-1058. Comments may also be submitted via email.

Related Documents:

Final Notice and Public Explanation of a Proposed Activity in a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard Designated Floodplain or Wetland: Piedmont Ecoregion

Date: April 30, 2026 

To: All interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals

This is to give notice that North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), as the responsible entity under 24 CFR Part 58, has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Orders 11988, as amended by Executive Order 13690, and Executive Order 11990, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Wetlands Protection. Although Executive Order 13690 was revoked on January 20, 2025, projects receiving HUD funding still must comply with the FFRMS standards in accordance with HUD’s Final Rule, published on April 23, 2024. The activity is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program.  

DCR is proposing to implement the additional single-family (1-4 unit) housing recovery programs of Buyout (including demolition for redevelopment and return to greenspace) and Relocation of program homes (both within an existing lot or onto a previously undisturbed lot). DCR previously considered the housing recovery programs, including Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of single-family (1-4 unit) Housing. Collectively, these programs are part of the Renew NC program. Their goal is to assist homeowners and rental unit owners and tenants that have been and continue to be affected by Hurricane Helene. Renew NC intends to facilitate the buyout, reimbursement, rehabilitation, relocation, and reconstruction of single-family housing units (residential dwellings with a maximum of 1-4 units per property/activity) damaged by Hurricane Helene. Although individual project locations are not known at this time, project sites will be located within the eligible Program area, which is comprised of twelve (12) counties, specifically, the counties of Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, Polk, Rutherford, Surry, Wilkes and Yadkin; and one (1) additional zip code (28214) in Mecklenburg County. DCR is preparing reevaluations of the tiered environmental reviews based on the additional scope items to eliminate redundancy and improve efficiency in evaluating potential impacts of these programs. Under this tiering approach, the twelve (12) counties and the additional zip code (28214) in Mecklenburg County have been grouped into the Piedmont Ecoregion, which has been evaluated for potential impacts at a Tier 1 Environmental Assessment level of review. This region is a widely accepted boundary for conservation planning efforts and is commonly used in organizing, interpreting and reporting information about land-use dynamics.    

Although individual project locations are not known at this time, the extent of the floodplain at individual project sites will be determined using the best available data, using either the 0.2 percent flood approach or the freeboard value approach and preliminary and effective flood hazard maps to identify the most protective flood elevation. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps will be utilized as a potential indicator of wetlands in addition to assessing each individual project site for the presence of wetland indicators including vegetation, soil, and hydrology representative of the types of wetlands found in the ecoregion.

The scope of the proposed construction-related activities may consist of major and minor rehabilitation, reconstruction, relocation (involving demolition of a structure on the storm-damaged property and new construction on a previously disturbed or undisturbed lot in a location of lesser risk of storm damage), elevation, demolition substantially conforming to the existing footprint of each damaged structure or developed lot, acquisition of previously residential developed land, and repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges. For projects that do not involve relocation, any ground disturbance will occur substantially within the original footprint of the damaged/previous structure and associated private roads, bridges and utilities. For properties in the floodplain, floodway, or other areas at-risk due to environmental conditions, property owners may opt for voluntary buyout, in which case, properties will be cleared of all structures and above ground improvements as necessary for consistency with open space and floodplain management principles. In cases where a damaged property is deemed unsuitable or unavailable for rehabilitation or reconstruction due to land loss, soil stability, loss of lease or other factors, Renew NC may decide to relocate the same eligible activity to another area (relocation). In the case of relocation, homes will be placed on existing lots or previously undisturbed lots to locations of lesser risk of storm damage including outside of the FFRMS floodplain and wetlands, where possible.

DCR has determined that the proposed project activities could affect up to an estimated total of 4000 acres (based on an estimated 4000 applicants, and each project site being approximately 1-acre in size on average) with a substantial portion of these activities anticipated to be located within the FFRMS floodplain. Although the Programs anticipate the majority of project activities to consist of rehabilitation, reconstruction, buyout (for demolition and/or return to greenspace), and potential relocation of residential structures within the footprint of previously developed areas, which would have no impact on wetlands, projects involving the repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges and relocation of program homes onto previously undisturbed lots may occur in, and potentially impact, Waters of the US, including wetlands.

DCR has identified and evaluated potential alternatives and mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the existing floodplains and/or wetlands. Alternatives considered include: 1) not implementing the proposed action in the designated floodplain, 2) commissioning infrastructure projects to achieve community-wide flood protection, 3) exclusively implementing acquisition of damaged structures in the designated floodplain for demolition and conversion to green space, and 4) relocating all projects outside of the designated floodplain. These alternatives were rejected as sole alternatives to the proposed action, because they do not support the Programs’ goal of meeting unmet housing needs by providing safe and sanitary housing to disaster-impacted property owners within the available program budget. Having incorporated the alternatives and mitigation measures into the proposed project to the extent feasible, DCR has determined there is no practicable alternative to locating the proposed project in the designated floodplain and/or wetlands due to: 1) the need to restore safe, sanitary and affordable housing within the disaster-impacted community; 2) the desire to not unduly displace residents, disconnecting them from their economic and social networks; 3) the need to enact economically viable and fiscally responsible programs within federal CDBG-DR allocation limits; and 4) the limited scope and impact of the proposed project combined with the Programs’ ability to mitigate and minimize impacts on human health, public property floodplain values, and wetlands.

The Programs will be designed to minimize adverse impacts to lives and property, mitigate and avoid adverse impacts within the floodplain, and where feasible, restore the natural and beneficial values of the floodplain. The Programs will also require that all reconstruction and repair of substantially damaged structures in the floodplain adhere to the elevation requirements defined in 24 CFR 55.20(e)(1), and all participants with property in the 100-year floodplain as shown on the effective Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) will obtain and maintain flood insurance on the subject structure in perpetuity. Acquired properties in the floodplain, floodway, or other areas at-risk due to environmental conditions will be cleared of all structures and above ground improvements, consistent with open space and floodplain management principles. As such, this activity would minimize adverse impacts to lives and property, restore and preserve the natural and beneficial values of floodplains, and may reduce future flood risk within the community. Lastly, Renew NC will incorporate Best Management Practices (BMPs) to the greatest extent feasible during construction activities to help minimize impacts to natural areas including floodplains and wetlands. These BMPs may include but are not limited to revegetating disturbed areas with a native seed mix, using temporary construction fencing to delineate and direct work away from sensitive areas, minimizing the footprint of any stream access, and using effective erosion and sedimentation control measures. The Programs will comply with all state and local floodplain and wetland protection procedures.

Therefore, DCR has reevaluated alternatives to building in floodplains and/or wetlands and determined that it has no practicable alternative to floodplains and/or wetlands development. Environmental files documenting compliance with Executive Order 11988, Executive Order 11990, and 24 CFR Part 55 are available for public inspection, review, and copying upon request as stated in the last paragraph of this notice.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and/or wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about floodplains and/or wetlands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains and/or wetlands, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by the Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), at the following address, on or before May 8, 2026: 

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4329 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Additional project information is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, 430 N. Salisbury St. Ste 4140, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-1058. Comments may also be submitted via email.

Related Documents:

This is to give notice that the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), as the Responsible Entity under 24 CFR Part 58, has determined that proposed actions under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR)  Program, may be located in the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) floodplain or wetland. The DCR will identify and evaluate practicable alternatives to locating the action within the floodplain or wetland and the potential impacts on the floodplain or wetland from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988, as amended by Executive Order 13690, and Executive Order 11990, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The DCR is proposing to implement the additional single-family (1-4 unit) housing recovery programs of Buyout (including demolition for redevelopment and return to greenspace) and relocation of program homes (both within an existing lot or onto a previously undisturbed lot). DCR previously considered the housing recovery programs including Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of single-family (1-4 unit) Housing. Collectively, these programs make up the Renew NC program. Their goal is to assist homeowners and rental unit owners and tenants that have been and continue to be affected by Hurricane Helene. Renew NC intends to facilitate the buyout, rehabilitation, relocation, and reconstruction of single-family housing units (residential dwellings with a maximum of 1-4 units per property/activity) damaged by Hurricane Helene. Although individual project locations are not known at this time, project sites will be located within the eligible Program area, which is comprised of sixteen (16) counties, specifically, the counties of Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, and Yancey; and the sovereign lands of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), known as the Qualla Boundary. DCR is preparing reevaluations of the tiered environmental reviews based on the additional scope items to eliminate redundancy and improve efficiency in evaluating potential impacts of these programs. Under this tiering approach, the sixteen (16) counties and the Qualla Boundary have been grouped into the Mountain Ecoregion, which has been evaluated for potential impacts at a Tier 1 Environmental Assessment level of review. This region is a widely accepted boundary for conservation planning efforts and is commonly used in organizing, interpreting and reporting information about land-use dynamics.

The extent of the FFRMS floodplain at individual project sites will be either determined using the 0.2 Percent Flood Approach or the Freeboard Value Approach to identify the most protective FFRMS elevation. The scope of the proposed construction-related activities may consist of major and minor rehabilitation, reconstruction, relocation, elevation, and demolition substantially conforming to the existing footprint of each damaged structure or developed lot; buyout/acquisition of previously residential developed or undeveloped land (for just demolition or return to greenspace); and in-kind repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges for property access. In cases where a damaged property is deemed unsuitable or unavailable for rehabilitation or reconstruction due to voluntary buyout, land loss, soil stability, loss of lease or other factors, Renew NC may decide to relocate the same eligible activity to another property (relocation). In the case of relocation, homes will be placed on existing lots or previously undisturbed lots located outside of the FFRMS floodplain and wetlands where possible. 

DCR has determined that the proposed project activities could affect up to an estimated total of 4000 acres (based on an estimated 4000 applicants, and each project site being approximately 1-acre in size on average) with a substantial portion of these activities anticipated to be located within the FFRMS floodplain. Although the Programs anticipate the majority of project activities to consist of rehabilitation, reconstruction, buyout (for demolition and/or return to greenspace) and potential relocation of residential structures within the footprint of previously developed areas, which would have no impact on wetlands, projects involving the repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges and relocation of program homes onto previously undisturbed lots may occur in, and potentially impact, Waters of the US, including wetlands.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains / wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the floodplain / wetland, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate project impacts on the floodplain / wetland. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment on activities in floodplains / wetlands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains and/or wetlands, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

The notice has a publication date of February 25, 2026. Written comments must be received by DCR at the following address on or before March 12, 2026. Written comments will be accepted via email or by post at the following mailing address:

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4329 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Related Documents:

This is to give notice that the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), as the Responsible Entity under 24 CFR Part 58, has determined that proposed actions under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR)  Program, may be located in the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) floodplain or wetland. The DCR will identify and evaluate practicable alternatives to locating the action within the floodplain or wetland and the potential impacts on the floodplain or wetland from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988, as amended by Executive Order 13690, and Executive Order 11990, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The DCR is proposing to implement the additional single-family (1-4 unit) housing recovery programs of Buyout (including demolition for redevelopment and return to greenspace) and relocation of program homes (both within an existing lot or onto a previously undisturbed lot). DCR previously considered the housing recovery programs including Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of single-family (1-4 unit) Housing. Collectively, these programs make up the Renew NC program. Their goal is to assist homeowners and rental unit owners and tenants that have been and continue to be affected by Hurricane Helene. Renew NC intends to facilitate the buyout, rehabilitation, relocation, and reconstruction of single-family housing units (residential dwellings with a maximum of 1-4 units per property/activity) damaged by Hurricane Helene. Although individual project locations are not known at this time, project sites will be located within the eligible Program area, which is comprised of twelve (12) counties, specifically, the counties of Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, Polk, Rutherford, Surry, Wilkes and Yadkin; and one (1) additional zip code (28214) in Mecklenburg County. DCR is preparing reevaluations of the tiered environmental reviews based on the additional scope items to eliminate redundancy and improve efficiency in evaluating potential impacts of these programs. Under this tiering approach, the twelve (12) counties and the additional zip code (28214) in Mecklenburg County have been grouped into the Piedmont Ecoregion, which has been evaluated for potential impacts at a Tier 1 Environmental Assessment level of review. This region is a widely accepted boundary for conservation planning efforts and is commonly used in organizing, interpreting and reporting information about land-use dynamics.

The extent of the FFRMS floodplain at individual project sites will be either determined using the 0.2 Percent Flood Approach or the Freeboard Value Approach to identify the most protective FFRMS elevation. The scope of the proposed construction-related activities may consist of major and minor rehabilitation, reconstruction, relocation, elevation, and demolition substantially conforming to the existing footprint of each damaged structure or developed lot; buyout/acquisition of previously residential developed or undeveloped land (for just demolition or return to greenspace); and in-kind repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges for property access. In cases where a damaged property is deemed unsuitable or unavailable for rehabilitation or reconstruction due to voluntary buyout, land loss, soil stability, loss of lease or other factors, Renew NC may decide to relocate the same eligible activity to another property (relocation). In the case of relocation, homes will be placed on existing lots or previously undisturbed lots located outside of the FFRMS floodplain and wetlands where possible. 

DCR has determined that the proposed project activities could affect up to an estimated total of 4000 acres (based on an estimated 4000 applicants, and each project site being approximately 1-acre in size on average) with a substantial portion of these activities anticipated to be located within the FFRMS floodplain. Although the Programs anticipate the majority of project activities to consist of rehabilitation, reconstruction, buyout (for demolition and/or return to greenspace) and potential relocation of residential structures within the footprint of previously developed areas, which would have no impact on wetlands, projects involving the repair or reconstruction of existing private roads and bridges and relocation of program homes onto previously undisturbed lots may occur in, and potentially impact, Waters of the US, including wetlands.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains / wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the floodplain / wetland, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate project impacts on the floodplain / wetland. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment on activities in floodplains / wetlands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains and/or wetlands, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

The notice has a publication date of February 25, 2026. Written comments must be received by DCR at the following address on or before March 12, 2026. Written comments will be accepted via email or by post at the following mailing address:

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4329 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Related Documents:

NCDOC DCR Adoption of HUD Addendum to FEMA Programmatic Agreement for CDBG-DR/MIT Projects

This memorandum relates to the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization’s (DCR), intent to adopt a HUD Addendum to Programmatic Agreement (PA) Among the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Officer, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, and Tribal Nations, which was executed on December 19, 2025.

DCR serves as the Responsible Entity administering the CDBG-DR funds and facilitating the HUD environmental review procedures in accordance with 24 CFR Part 58 for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts across western North Carolina. The Renew NC program supports housing recovery for single-family (1-4 unit) structures across the eligible HUD and State identified Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) areas (refer to HUD-Approved State Action Plan). Exact project locations are unknown and based on applications to the program; however, eligible program activities include rehabilitation, demolition, reconstruction, relocation, and new construction. These activities have the potential to include associated ground disturbance as necessary to repair hurricane damage. In total, the program expects more than 3,000 projects to be completed under this program.

Therefore, utilizing the existing statewide PA will help DCR streamline the environmental review processes more efficiently and ensure compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and its implementing regulations under 36 CFR Part 800, accelerating disaster assistance to Helene survivors and impacted communities.

Written comments regarding the adoption of the Programmatic Agreement must be received by DCR at the following address on or before 15 days after publication. Written comments will be accepted through March 10, 2026 via email or by post at the following mailing address:

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Related documents:

Piedmont Ecoregion

This notice is intended to satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities undertaken by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC) Division of Community Revitalization (DCR). The proposed activities will assist homeowners affected by Hurricane Helene.

The notice has a publication date of July 8, 2025. Written comments must be received by DCR at the following address on or before 15 days after publication. Written comments will be accepted via email or by post at the following mailing address:

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4329 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Mountain Ecoregion

This notice is intended to satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities undertaken by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC) Division of Community Revitalization (DCR). The proposed activities will assist homeowners affected by Hurricane Helene.

The notice has a publication date of June 27, 2025. Written comments must be received by DCR at the following address on or before 15 days after publication. Written comments will be accepted via email or by post at the following mailing address:

NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization
ATTN: Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary
301 North Wilmington Street
4329 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC, 27699-4301

Final Notice

The North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) is proposing to implement housing recovery programs including Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing, and Multifamily Construction and Repair (the Programs) to assist homeowners and rental unit owners and tenants that have been and continue to be affected by Tropical Storm Helene. DCR, as the Responsible Entity under 24 CFR Part 58, has determined that proposed activities may be located in the floodplain or wetland and, therefore, has completed the 8-Step Decision-Making Process to identify and evaluate practicable alternatives and potential impacts on the floodplain or wetland in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C. Consistent with the associated procedural requirements, a Final Notice and Public Explanation of a Proposed Activity in a Floodplain or Wetland for the proposed housing recovery activities has been prepared. The purpose of this notice is to educate interested individuals about the project and potential impacts on the floodplain / wetland, inform individuals who may be put at greater or continued risk as a result of the project and, and provide individuals who may be affected, as well as those interested in protecting the natural environment, the opportunity to express concerns and provide information about these areas.

As of April 29, 2025, the notice was published here, on the North Carolina Department of Commerce website for public review, and distributed electronically to Federal, State, and local agencies, organizations, and individuals who may be interested in the proposed action. All comments received by May 6, 2025, and submitted as directed in the notice, will be taken into consideration.

Early Notice

The North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) is proposing to implement housing recovery programs including Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing, and Multifamily Construction and Repair (the Programs) to assist homeowners and rental unit owners and tenants that have been and continue to be affected by Tropical Storm Helene. DCR, as the Responsible Entity under 24 CFR Part 58, has determined that proposed activities may be located in the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) floodplain or wetland and, therefore, is performing an 8-Step Decision-Making Process to identify and evaluate practicable alternatives and potential impacts on the floodplain or wetland in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C. Consistent with the associated procedural requirements, an Early Notice for Proposed Activities in a FFRMS Designated Floodplain or Wetland for the proposed housing recovery activities was prepared. The purpose of this notice is to educate interested individuals about the project and potential impacts on the floodplain / wetland, inform individuals who may be put at greater or continued risk as a result of the project and, provide individuals who may be affected, as well as those interested in protecting the natural environment, the opportunity to express concerns and provide information about these areas.

As of April 3, 2025, the notice was published here, on the North Carolina Department of Commerce website for access by the public, and distributed electronically to Federal, State, and local agencies, organizations, and individuals who may be interested in the proposed action. All comments received April 18, 2025, and submitted as directed in the notice, will be taken into consideration.

Environmental Reviews

Procurement Information

Tab/Accordion Items

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Division of Community Revitalization Procurement Manuals