Homeowners in Delaware County, PA, are facing growing concerns about flooding after the federal government eliminated key flood mitigation programs earlier this year. According to a report by The Philadelphia Inquirer (8/28/2025), the Trump administration’s cancellation of federal flood mitigation grants has left Darby Creek Valley communities more vulnerable to severe storms and repeated flooding events.

Local residents, many of whom already experience annual floods, fear that without long-term solutions, their homes could become uninhabitable. Delaware County had previously secured a FEMA technical assistance grant to coordinate flood-mitigation plans with neighboring municipalities. However, that program was cut in April, along with $1 million in environmental justice funding for Philadelphia’s Eastwick neighborhood.

County officials warn that the funding loss will delay years of planning and slow progress toward securing federal infrastructure grants that could help protect homes and property values. Gina Burritt, Delaware County’s planning director, emphasized that FEMA’s technical expertise will be difficult to replace — a setback for both residents and future development efforts in flood-prone areas.

For homeowners, this development highlights the importance of understanding a property’s flood risk, flood zone designation, and flood insurance requirements before buying or selling a home in Delaware County. If you are considering purchasing real estate near Darby Creek or other flood-prone areas, working with an experienced agent can help you evaluate potential risks and protect your investment.

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer, August 28, 2025