Rhode Island Getting $2.3M in Stimulus for Flood Protection

Rhode Island is receiving $2.3 million in stimulus funds to protect towns against flooding.

The state’s congressional delegation announced Thursday that the money will go toward projects in Cranston and West Warwick.

Almost $2 million is devoted to purchasing easements and restoring damaged land along the Pawtuxet, Pocasset, and Meshanticut Rivers. About $400,000 is for designing, engineering, and obtaining permitting for the flood protection projects.

Officials say the projects will help improve water quality, restore fish and wildlife habitats, and reduce long-term federal disaster assistance.