The King County Flood Control District recently announced the availability of at least $12 million in grant funding for projects that reduce the impact of flooding.
The program targets flood reduction projects throughout King County and the deadline to apply for a 2022 grant is at 6 p.m. on June 3. Online informational meetings will be offered on April 27 and 28, please visit the Flood Reduction Grants site for more information.
The program was expanded in 2021 to provide more funds and to include new categories of project types. In addition to the original Flood Reduction Grant category, the three newer areas are Urban Streams, Coastal Erosion/Coastal Flooding, and Culvert Replacement/Fish Passage.
“These grants are an opportunity for non-profits, schools, homeowners associations and more to take the lead in identifying and addressing their flood risks,” said Dave Upthegrove, King County Flood Control District Board Chair. “Every year we experience flood damage across the County and this last flood season was no exception. I encourage and look forward to seeing proposals that will improve our community’s resilience to flooding now and in the future.”
To qualify for funding, projects must directly address existing or potential flooding. Projects that achieve multiple benefits are encouraged. Typical projects might include:
- Addressing surface water overflows and flooding from creeks and lakes due to outflow blockage or undersized or failing culverts or pipes.
- Clearing clogged agricultural drainage systems.
- Relocating structures outside of flood zones in coastal areas.
- Replacing culverts that block fish passage and restrict flows and undermine streambanks.
- Assessing existing conditions as part of the creation of a lake management district.
The Flood Control District is specifically interested in reaching homeowner associations, non-profit organizations, schools, special purpose districts, tribes, cities, towns, and agencies in King County.
There is no cap on the individual award amount. Past grants have ranged from $10,000 to $1.5 million. Matching funds are encouraged but not required.
Expenditure of the 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 on the Flood Reduction Grants webpage.
Interested parties should contact Kim Harper at 206-477-6079 or kim.harper@nullkingcounty.gov.