Final answer:
Yes, a community can grant a variance to allow a project in the floodway that will cause a 1/2 foot increase in flood heights. However, it is important to consider the potential consequences and risks associated with such a decision.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a community can grant a variance to allow a project in the floodway that will cause a 1/2 foot increase in flood heights. However, it is important to consider the potential consequences and risks associated with such a decision.
Granting a variance in this situation means allowing a project to proceed despite not meeting the established regulations or guidelines. The community may weigh the benefits of the project against the potential increase in flood heights and determine that the benefits outweigh the risks.
It's worth noting that altering the natural floodway can have significant impacts on flood mitigation and could potentially increase the risk of flooding for nearby areas. Therefore, careful consideration, consultation with experts, and appropriate engineering measures should be taken to ensure that any project in the floodway is designed to minimize the impact on flood heights and mitigate potential risks.