Who Qualifies for Coastal Flood Resilience Projects in Rhode Island
GrantID: 11678
Grant Funding Amount Low: $40,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $40,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Coastal Flood Resilience Initiatives in Rhode Island
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the U.S., faces significant geographic vulnerabilities due to its extensive coastline and frequent flooding attributed to climate change. Over the past 50 years, the state has experienced a notable rise in sea level, projected to rise by an additional two feet by 2050, putting many communities at increased risk of coastal flooding. Areas such as Narragansett and Newport are particularly susceptible, where flooding can disrupt day-to-day life and pose threats to infrastructure, homes, and local economies.
The populations most affected by flooding events include low-income families living along the coastline, many of whom lack the resources to adequately protect their homes from storm surges. Furthermore, vital infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and waste management systems are at risk, affecting the entire community's safety. Rhode Island’s dense population along the coast exacerbates these vulnerabilities, making it crucial to develop proactive flood resilience measures.
To address these issues, Rhode Island is launching funding opportunities for coastal flood resilience initiatives focused on enhancing local infrastructure and mitigating flood risks. This funding will support proposals from municipalities that aim to develop effective flood mitigation strategies, such as creating green infrastructure, improving drainage systems, and adapting buildings to withstand rising water levels. By prioritizing resilience initiatives, Rhode Island can better protect its communities and critical infrastructure from future flooding events.
In addition to protecting lives and property, the initiative will foster collaborative efforts among municipalities, agencies, and local businesses to implement comprehensive flood resilience measures. Through improved infrastructure, Rhode Island can ensure public safety while also protecting essential local economies that depend on uninterrupted access to coastal areas.
Eligibility for the grant will be extended to municipalities and local organizations that demonstrate clear plans for improving flood resilience within their communities. Applicants must outline their proposed strategies, detailing how they plan to collaborate with state agencies and stakeholders to achieve meaningful outcomes.
The application process will require evidence of community engagement and needs assessment focused on the coastal areas at the highest risk. Interested applicants must also show a commitment to preparing for long-term climate resiliency, demonstrating proactive measures that can adapt to continuous environmental changes.
In evaluating fit, proposed projects will be assessed on their alignment with Rhode Island's broader climate adaptation strategies, particularly regarding infrastructure investment. Successful applicants will highlight the innovative approaches they intend to undertake to enhance community resilience while addressing specific coastal challenges tied to flooding.
In summary, Rhode Island's coastal flood resilience initiatives serve as a necessary response to climate change, directly addressing the state's unique geographical vulnerabilities. By implementing effective flood mitigation strategies, Rhode Island aims to protect both residents and vital infrastructure against future flooding, ensuring a safer and more resilient coastal environment.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements