Nearly $1 Million In Grants For Flood Protection Projects

The Department of Environmental Protection this week announced $1 million in grants to 35 flood protection projects in 16 counties.

"Building and maintaining flood protection projects that protect lives and property requires a significant investment of time and money on the part of local governments and taxpayers," Gov. Rendell said. "Pennsylvania's Flood Protection Grant Program provides needed funding to help keep these structures in good working order so that homeowners have peace of mind and businesses have the confidence to invest in their communities."

The 35 flood protection grants announced today total $995,768 for project improvements, specialized equipment and non-routine maintenance.

The grants are awarded annually to municipal and county sponsors of existing flood protection projects, and cover up to 65 percent of the costs for project improvements and non-routine maintenance, as well as a maximum of 50 percent of the cost for specialized equipment to maintain these projects in a state of readiness.

The maximum grant award for project improvements and non-routine maintenance is $65,000, and the maximum for specialized equipment grants is $50,000.

Local municipal and county sponsors are responsible for the long-term operation and routine maintenance of flood protection projects once construction of a federally funded or state-funded project is completed.

Grants are awarded based upon anticipated benefits of the project, such as extending the infrastructure's life, improving function, or improving emergency response.

A list of grants awarded is available online.