Final answer:
A nonresidential building can be constructed at grade within the flood fringe, provided it is adequately floodproofed with measures such as pier and beam construction or other water-resistant designs and materials.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a new nonresidential building can be built at grade in the flood fringe but must be floodproofed to withstand potential water damage. Floodproofing measures for buildings in flood-prone areas include using materials that resist water damage, implementing designs that prevent water entry, and elevating critical utilities above the expected flood level. An example of such construction is the pier and beam foundation, which raises the structure above ground level, allowing for ventilation and minimizing damage from moisture and flooding.
Adaptation strategies are essential for cities in low-lying areas, especially with the looming threat of rising sea levels. These adaptations may include the use of seawalls, levees, and the conservation of wetlands, which are natural defenses against storm surges and flooding. The concept that a “1 in 100 year flood” could occur does not mean it will happen once per century, but rather that there's a 1% chance of such an event happening in any given year, making repeated floods within short intervals possible.