Baker-Polito Administration Awards Funding to New Bedford to Combat Effects of Climate Change

Mayor Jon Mitchell announced today that the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded a $255,000 grant to the City of New Bedford to help protect the city’s infrastructure and people from the risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion and sea level rise. New Bedford was one of just fifteen communities in the Commonwealth to receive a Coastal Zone Management (CZM) grant, and received the third largest award.

“Governor Baker, Lieutenant Governor Polito and Secretary Beaton have all recognized that New Bedford, as a coastal community, has a lot at stake, so we are grateful for this assistance in assessing our vulnerabilities and preparing for the potential impacts of coastal storms and flooding. This grant will enable New Bedford to better prepare for the effects of climate change and I appreciate the Baker-Polito Administration’s support of our efforts,” said Mayor Jon Mitchell.

The City of New Bedford Department of Environmental Stewardship and the Department of Public Infrastructure applied for the funding to support design improvements for the City’s vulnerable wastewater pump stations. New Bedford will evaluate flood proofing needs for nine of its most vulnerable wastewater pump stations and design and permit the highest priority, least complex improvements to provide uninterrupted service during flood events.

The City operates 23 wastewater pumping stations ranging in capacity from 0.1 to 14.0 mgd. as part of its wastewater system. The pump stations are an integral part of the City’s wastewater infrastructure as they pump wastewater to the treatment facility in the south end.