Alexander Co. gets $11.6 million in flood buyouts

CAIRO, Ill. (AP) — A far southern Illinois county that borders the Ohio and Mississippi rivers is getting $11.6 million to demolish buildings in the floodplain.

The money headed to Alexander County includes $8.7 million in federal funds and the remaining nearly $3 million from the state of Illinois.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says the money will be used to buy and knock down 167 flood-prone homes and businesses, and to raise four other buildings.

The funds come two years after the county was hit hard by flooding, most notably around the Olive Branch community where more than 150 residents were displaced. Other properties are in Tamms and Thebes (THEEBZ).

Purchase prices will be based on appraisals of pre-flood home values.