Bennie G. Thompson

08/29/2024 | Press release | Archived content

Congressman Thompson Announces Federal Funding for Batesville, MS, Under New Army Civil Works Program

Bolton, MS- Congressman Bennie G. Thompson is proud to announce that Batesville, Mississippi, has been selected as one of the twelve projects to receive funding under a new pilot program authorized by Section 165(a) of the Water Resources Development Act of 2020. The project, located in Batesville, will be funded under the Continuing Authorities Program (CAP) Section 14 and will receive 100% federal funding.

Today, the Army Civil Works Program announced the selection of 12 projects across the nation, spanning from Mississippi to Alaska, as part of this pilot program. These communities are the first to participate in the program, which is specifically designed to direct federal investments to small or economically disadvantaged communities.

The CAP Section 14 project in Batesville will focus on reducing the flood risk to vital infrastructure and a state historic site. This project is particularly significant as it addresses critical environmental and flood risk challenges, ensuring the safety and preservation of essential community resources.

In 2023, a solicitation for project proposals under this new authority was issued, resulting in 192 applications from communities across the country. Batesville's selection is a testament to the community's need and the importance of the project.

The Army Corps of Engineers' local district will collaborate closely with project sponsors and the Batesville community to move this project through its study, design, and construction phases. Unlike other CAP projects, which typically require local cost sharing, this pilot program ensures that the selected projects will be fully funded by the federal government. Additional eligible projects may also receive approval and funding in the future.

"I am thrilled to see Batesville selected for this critical federal investment," said Congressman Thompson. "This project will not only help mitigate flood risks but also protect a key piece of our state's history. It's a significant win for Batesville and the state of Mississippi."

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