Whitehouse, Reed announce $1.35M for R.I. coastal management, protection

PROVIDENCE – More than $1.35 million in federal funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Coastal Zone Management Program has been awarded for Rhode Island coastal management and protection, according to U.S. Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack F. Reed.

The Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) will receive the funds to help administer the state’s Coastal Management Program.

NOAA’s investment of $1,352,000 will be matched by $1,263,880 in state funds, according to a news release.

The money will support jobs and provide continued assistance in balancing economic development, coastal uses and natural resource protection.

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“Our coastline is one of Rhode Island’s most important natural assets and this federal funding will support CRMC’s efforts to enhance and protect our coastal habitats,” Reed said. “These federal funds will bolster the state’s efforts to improve coastal water quality and address issues such as flooding, storm surges and shoreline erosion.”

Whitehouse said Rhode Island’s coastline attracts visitors to its beaches and coastal communities, and business to its ports.

“I’m glad this funding will help the CRMC protect our coastline and build resiliency – efforts that are essential to our economy and way of life in Rhode Island,” Whitehouse said.

The funding will assist CRMC’s work to address coastal hazards, climate change and ocean management.

The funding also will support ongoing coastal permitting, planning, policy, public outreach, habitat restoration and harbor management. Other award uses include support for a major review of the Rhode Island Shoreline Change Special Area Management Plan (Beach SAMP).

Beach SAMP is an ongoing project aimed at identifying areas at high risk to coastal erosion, storm surge and sea level rise along Rhode Island’s coast. It also seeks to analyze the economic costs associated with shoreline changes and identify specific infrastructure and facilities that may be at risk for future flooding.

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