The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established both the PROTECT Formula and Discretionary Grant Programs. The PROTECT Discretionary Grants Program funds projects on a competitive basis that address the climate crisis by … Read more
Under Section 205, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has the authority to plan and construct local small flood risk management projects.
Eligible Uses
Planning and constructing small flood damage reduction or flood risk management projects. Natural or nature-based infrastructure projects may be considered as part of Section 205 projects, although construction or improvement of structural or nonstructural features may also be included.
Eligible Recipients
Eligible recipients are USACE non-federal sponsors, which includes legally constituted public entities and nonprofit entities.
Approx Annual Funding Amount
The program was funded at $10 million for Fiscal Year 2022, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included $51.4 million to be available until expended.
Cost Share Requirements
The federal cost-share is 100% for the initial $100,000 of feasibility study costs, 50% for remaining feasibility study costs, and 65% for implementation costs, with the note that for non-structural flood damage reduction purposes, the non-federal share is limited to 35%. The federal share of an individual project carried out under this program cannot exceed $10 million. The non-federal sponsor’s cost-share may include cash, work-in-kind or a combination of both. Legislation in 2020 authorized a pilot program for USACE to conduct 10 Continuing Authorities Program projects at full federal expense for small or economically disadvantaged communities. In-kind contributions are accepted.
Application Cycle
To initiate a Section 205 project, reach out to your local USACE District to submit a written request for assistance/Letter of Intent (sample 205 letter), request an initial site visit, determine eligibility as “economically disadvantaged,” and secure financial requirements.
Contact
See this linked document for contacts for USACE programs.
Other Info
- This program is covered under the Justice40 Initiative.
- The USACE oversees planning, design, and construction of the projects in close coordination with the non-federal project sponsor. (See 33 U.S.C. § 701s.)
