Targeting Aging Infrastructure and Ecological Health
Mass.gov reported that dams, seawalls, and levees protect communities across Massachusetts against climate change impacts while aging infrastructure presents both safety risks and opportunities for ecological restoration. To address these vulnerabilities, the state operates the Dam and Seawall Repair or Removal Grant Program.
Competitive Financial Support for Local Bodies and Nonprofits
The program provides competitive financial support to local government bodies and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Grants assist with the engineering, permitting, and construction phases required for either repairing deficient structures or removing obsolete ones to restore natural waterways.
Applicants Face Strict Regulatory Review Rules
Awards are structured around a standard contract period spanning two fiscal years. Applicants must possess legal access rights to the land and structures in question. Construction grant applicants must submit their projects to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act Office for regulatory review before applying.
Bond Bill Provides Statutory Funding Authority
Funding authority for these grants stems from the 2018 Environmental Bond Bill, specifically St. 2018, c. 209. Because of this statutory authorization, grants awarded under the program remain exempt from the requirements of M.G.L. c. 25, § 2III or 301 CMR 15.00.
Portal Manages Annual Grant Application Windows
Application intake operates through the ECO One Stop, which serves as a unified portal for various environmental and climate resilience grants in Massachusetts. Grant rounds typically open during the early winter months and are preceded by an optional Expression of Interest period in the early fall.
