BOSTON (July 1, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $254,000 grant to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to enhance water quality monitoring at beaches. This funding is part of a broader $9.75 million initiative announced in June aimed at supporting coastal and Great Lakes communities with similar programs.
At King's Beach in Lynn, EPA Regional Administrator David Cash emphasized the significance of the grant for vulnerable communities. "Beach closures and advisories are harsh realities on blistering hot summer days and the continuing concerns at King's Beach remind us there is more work to be done," said Cash. "This grant will advance environmental justice in Massachusetts communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs."
Senator Edward J. Markey remarked, "It's simple—on summer days, people deserve clean, safe beaches to swim in. The funding announced today will ensure that real-time monitoring data can inform the community when it is safe to swim." He added that this step is crucial for maintaining access to recreational spaces like King's Beach.
U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren noted the historical risks faced by beachgoers at King's Beach due to unsafe bacteria levels. "This EPA funding will allow us to better monitor water quality and represents a first step towards transforming King's Beach into a clean, safe beach for the people of Lynn," she stated.
State Senator Brendan Crighton highlighted the importance of effective communication with residents regarding beach safety: "Thank you to our federal partners and all stakeholders whose efforts helped secure this critical funding that will have an important impact on the wellness of our residents and beaches."
Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson expressed appreciation for the grant's focus on public health and communication: "From a recreational and environmental justice standpoint, the water quality issues at King's Beach need to be resolved so that individuals and families can enjoy the refreshing waters every warm day."
The EPA's Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act grants support state, Tribal, and territorial applicants in monitoring coastal water quality. Since 2001, nearly $230 million has been allocated through these grants nationwide.
MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple underscored the collaborative nature of protecting beach environments: "The monitoring supported by this grant arms residents with information they can use to determine when and where to swim."
The 2024 BEACH Act grant allocations for New England include:
- Connecticut Department of Public Health - $206,000
- Maine Department of Environmental Protection - $254,000
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health - $254,000
- New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services - $194,000
- Rhode Island Department of Health - $210,000
Further information on BEACH Act grants can be found through official channels.
