Grant funds available for flood prevention projects

The King County Flood Control District has announced the availability of funds for projects that reduce the impact of flooding.

The grant fund program will target flood reduction projects throughout King County with the deadline for the 2016 grant opportunity being May 27.

Projects must provide a flood reduction benefit so that it directly addresses existing or potential flooding. Projects that achieve multiple benefits are encouraged. Typical projects might include, but are not limited to:

• Addressing surface water overflows and flooding from creeks and lakes due to outflow blockage or undersized/failing culverts or pipes.
• Clearance of clogged agricultural drainage systems.
• Improving inadequate or failing stormwater systems that are causing flooding or slope instability.
• Addressing flooding of roads due to increased stormwater runoff.
• Assessment of existing conditions as part of the creation of a lake management district.

“I’d encourage anyone who needs funding for a local flooding issue to work with your local homeowner association, city, or other qualified group to apply for a grant,” says Reagan Dunn, Chair of the King County Flood Control District.

There is no cap on the individual award amount. Grants awarded in the past have ranged from $11,000 to $400,000. Matching funds are encouraged but not required and the expenditure of funds must be completed no later than 36 months after signing the grant agreement.

More information about criteria, eligibility and application assistance can be found online. Those interested in applying can contact Kim Harper with questions at (206) 477-6079 or kim.harper@kingcounty.gov and include “Flood Reduction Grant Application” in subject line.