Quantifying Benefits: Prioritization of Hazard Mitigation Projects in the State of Illinois

Renna Mia Leigh ()
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Renna Mia Leigh: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 1068 University of Maryland , 20742, College Park, MD, USA

Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, 2025, vol. 22, issue 3, 359-404

Abstract: This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the development of a prioritization methodology designed for hazard mitigation projects within the framework of the 2023 Illinois Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan (INHMP). This INHMP update was meticulously crafted to align with the accreditation standards set by the Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP) and meet federal and state requirements. This paper explores the dynamic historical evolution of hazard mitigation policy, highlighting the imperative for a robust methodology to effectively prioritize funding for projects free from bias. The methodology innovatively addresses the limitations of the previous approaches used by integrating a quantitative Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) process, enabling a nuanced evaluation of project outcomes based on 11 primary objectives collaboratively identified by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and stakeholders. Quantification ensures a more objective assessment, overcoming the inherent limitations of subjective decision making. This paper further introduces an optimization formula to operationalize the prioritization methodology, accounting for varying project funding sources. This article concludes by offering recommendations for ongoing refinement and validation of the methodology, in addition to adaptation recommendations for the methodology to remain a dynamic and effective decision-making tool in mitigating hazards in the face of future evolving policies.

Keywords: Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA); hazard mitigation; prioritization; optimization; engineering policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1515/jhsem-2024-0062

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