Beshear announces funding for local governments to tackle stormwater, flooding
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Funding is now available for local governments to tackle stormwater infrastructure to prevent flooding.
According to Gov. Andy Beshear’s office, the governor announced Tuesday local governments can apply for grant funding to improve infrastructure and protect communities. Beshear’s office further states the program supports projects that use natural solutions, which can include ways to enhance natural systems storing or distributing stormwater.
Officials say project applications need to be submitted to the Kentucky Division of Water by July 10, 2026.
“Too many Kentucky families have seen heavy rain turn streams into rivers, make roads impassable, and flood homes and businesses,” Beshear said. “These funds use practical tools that strengthen infrastructure and protect our people during future storms.”
In addition, the governor’s office says letters of intent to apply, while optional but recommended, are due to the Kentucky Division of Water by May 15, 2026.
Communities that submit a letter of intent will gain feedback on their project that may assist in development of an application, officials say.
The Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program is funded through the America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, according to the governor’s office.
Officials say funding can be used for planning, design and construction of eligible projects.
Beshear’s office further stated stormwater overflow can result in health and safety issues beyond flooding, including trash, chemicals, oils and pollutants that get deposited into community water.
An excessive stormwater event can flood wastewater systems and may lead to sewer overflows, officials say.
The governor’s office says communities that qualify as rural or disadvantaged will receive priority.
Rural communities are classified as having a population of under 10,000, while those with a median household income of less than 80% of the state’s median household income qualify as disadvantaged.
Communities that do not meet those definitions are required to provide 20% matching funds, officials say.
Kentucky Division of Water staff will review the project applications and rank them according to eligibility and priority criteria, according to the governor’s office.
To determine if your project is eligible and to obtain the letter of intent form and other supporting documents, please click here. For more information, contact Dale Booth at 502-782-6895 or dale.booth@ky.gov.
