CRANSTON, RI - In an effort to provide further relief to cities and towns in Rhode Island still trying to rebuild from the severe flooding last March, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse today joined with Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian; Cranston Mayor Allan W. Fung; Providence Mayor David Cicilline; and Johnston Mayor Joseph M. Polisena to announce over $13 million in federal funding that will help communities that were affected by flooding rebuild and alleviate financial burdens on taxpayers and local governments. The announcement was made at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet.

This funding comes through the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which will provide $8,935,237 to the state to assist flood-impacted communities as well as $2,787,697 in direct funding to Warwick and $1,277,067 to Cranston.

"Although more than $100 million in direct federal aid has already been allocated to Rhode Island to help the families and businesses that were ravaged by the flooding last March, more is needed before a full recovery can been made," said Senator Reed. "This additional funding from CDBG will provide those communities with additional support and aid in order to recover, rebuild, and guard against similar devastation in the future."

"Senator Reed and I have worked hard to get much-needed flood recovery assistance from the federal government," said Senator Whitehouse. "The funds for Rhode Island announced today can help us rebuild our infrastructure, restore damaged housing, and support economic development. This federal assistance helps communities and individuals hurt by the flood."

"This Community Development Block Grant funding is another significant step in Rhode Island's recovery from the March floods, helping our state and local governments continue to rebuild and revitalize our economy," said Representative Kennedy.

"While some have moved on, there are still scores of families, businesses and municipalities trying to rebuild from the spring flooding," said Representative Langevin. "Allowing this funding to go directly to the cities and towns in need is key to finally finishing to our state's flood recovery efforts."

This $13 million in assistance is the first installment of aid Senators Reed and Whitehouse secured with the support of Representatives Kennedy and Langevin in the Supplemental Appropriations bill that was signed into law at the end of July.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) disaster relief funds are a flexible source of federal funding that may be used to help repair homes, businesses, sewage facilities, and public buildings. The funds may also be used to purchase damaged properties in a flood plain and relocate residents to safer areas.

This federal aid will boost efforts to help communities throughout the state that are still recovering from the extensive March flooding.

Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, one of Rhode Island's best-known event facilities, experienced significant damage during the historic flooding.

Breakdown of funding:

The State: $8,935,237

Warwick: $2,787,697

Cranston: $1,277,067

Total: $13,000,001