The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced on Monday that it is providing more than $17 million in federal funding to support flood mitigation projects across New England. The funds, distributed through FEMA’s pre-disaster mitigation grant program, aim to help communities reduce the risks and impacts associated with flooding, consequently lowering future federal disaster assistance needs.
This allocation will support over a dozen projects in the region, covering efforts such as sea wall repairs, flood plain restoration, and stormwater management. Nationwide, FEMA plans to award more than $189 million for 125 hazard mitigation projects.
In Massachusetts, the town of Hull is set to receive $1.1 million for repairs and upgrades to shoreline protections along Harborview Road. Similarly, Scituate has been awarded $1.1 million for its Cedar Point sea wall project, both key initiatives for coastal communities confronting rising sea levels and increased erosion.
New Hampshire’s Hampton is allocated $1.2 million for a coastal resiliency project targeting stormwater reduction. In Rhode Island, multiple communities will benefit from the funding, including Providence, with $825,000 designated for a flood response initiative along the West River. Bristol stands to receive $900,000 and $660,000 for two separate sea wall repair efforts at Independence Park and another location. Barrington’s sea wall repair project is eligible for $475,000, while Burrillville could obtain $325,000 to address overflow concerns at Wallum Lake Dam.
Maine’s York County Emergency Management Agency will be awarded $1.7 million for flood mitigation, with the town of Surry receiving $2.9 million to support a storm evacuation plan. Southport is eligible for $1.1 million to improve infrastructure at Hendricks Head.
In Vermont, which experienced severe floods in 2024, three towns will receive mitigation funding: Montpelier is allocated $1.4 million to elevate housing on Elm Street; Barre will receive $591,000 for flood plain restoration and debris catcher improvements; and Hardwick is eligible for $70,000 to develop a flood recovery plan.
FEMA requires communities interested in receiving funding to submit applications by July 22. These grants are part of an ongoing federal effort to support state and local governments in adapting to and preparing for natural disasters before they occur.
