FEMA: Faulty Pumps Could Change Bethlehem, Pa. Flood Map

Federal officials say failure to repair 15 flood-control pumps along the Lehigh River could cost Bethlehem property owners money.

The city argues that the pumps have never been used, and repairs that could cost millions of dollars are unnecessary.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says a change in the flood plain map could force riverfront property owners to buy expensive insurance.

The pumps, a 28-foot levee and deep storm sewers were designed 44 years ago to protect the massive Bethlehem Steel plant along the river.

The city took over maintenance when the company stopped making steel at the plant in 1995. That came to a halt in 2000 when a high-voltage line to the pumps died.

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Information from: The Morning Call, http://www.mcall.com