Flood mitigation plans in Austin took a step forward Monday night.

The city council voted separately to approve an environmental assessment at one site and an archaeological survey at another, two actions that will help with grants as the city prepares for future floods.

The environmental assessment will take place at 501 Oakland Ave. E, currently home to a Budget Oil and Gas Station. The council has indicated an interest in potentially acquiring the site as flood plans go forward, and the assessment would make sure the site is safe. It was approved unanimously.

The council also approved an archaeological survey of the area west of the Cedar River from the pool parking lot to Interstate 90. The survey would look at various land features and buildings in the area and how they all could come into play with flood plans.

It is also required work if Austin is to receive a federal grant for the project — a grant they have applied for in the sum of $2,500,000.

The survey was approved by a 4-1 vote, with Marian Clennon from Ward 3 voting against it. She cited uncertainty in the price of the survey as a concern.

City engineer Jon Erichson admitted that the low bid of $11,690 could fluctuate, but said that fluctuation could be in either direction. He said ultimately the work needed to be approved so the city could go forward with flood planning, which has been identified as a top priority in Austin.