FEMA grant to fund construction of storm shelter at Mississippi college

U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Thad Cochran (R-MS) recently said Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale, Mississippi, has been awarded a $1.49 million federal grant for construction of a multi-purpose safe room.

The award was presented by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and will enable Coahoma to build a safe room 10,000 square feet in size to protect individuals from hurricanes and tornadoes, with the ability to withstand winds of up to 250 mph. The safe room's construction will adhere to FEMA-361 standards.

“Many people living in small communities rely on safe rooms for protection during tornadoes and severe storms,” Wicker said. “The need for a reinforced facility in Coahoma County is real, and this is exactly the type of project for which this program was designed. Students, staff and local residents can be assured that shelter will be available when disaster strikes.”

Cochran agreed.

“Tornadoes and other severe weather are a consistent concern for Mississippians,” Cochran said. “I’m pleased that this investment can help Coahoma Community College and Clarksdale residents be better prepared for inclement weather.”

Once construction has been completed, the safe room will be able to fit 1,592 people within a half-mile radius from the school.