U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a $75 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan for Howard County, Maryland.
The loan will support the Ellicott City Safe and Sound Plan projects, according to a May 24 EPA news release. Funds will be use to implement a comprehensive plan to upgrade water infrastructure for flood resilience to help preserve the historic Main Street area.
“The people of Ellicott City have endured severe flooding and know all too well how disastrous it can be when water infrastructure fails,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox in the release. “Through WIFIA, EPA is investing in climate resilience to protect residents, businesses, property and the history of this charming city. The agency is also working to deliver the benefits of water infrastructure investments to more communities with $50 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”
The plan will provide resilient infrastructure, manage stream debris and increase green space to help reduce the impact of floods in the area, according to the release. Projects include the construction of dry flood mitigation facilities, improvements to flood mitigation, planning and hydraulic modeling efforts and constructing a tunnel to intercept stormwater.
“Historic flooding has been occurring routinely in Ellicott City. But it doesn’t have to be that way and local leaders are taking the right steps to improve flood resilience and protect local homes and businesses,” said Sen. Ben Cardin, chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, according to the release.
“Severe flooding has wreaked havoc on Ellicott City, impacting its residents and the businesses that make up this historic treasure. Following these floods, we committed to bringing the community solutions to mitigate the risks of extreme weather and better prepare for the future. This investment is a result of that work and partnership,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen in the release.
