Application period opens for culvert replacement grants

The Division of Ecological Restoration in the Department of Fish and Game seeks proposals from Massachusetts municipalities interested in replacing undersized, perched and/or degraded culverts located in areas of high ecological value.

The purpose of the Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grant Program is to encourage municipalities to replace culverts with better-designed crossings that meet improved structural and environmental design standards and climate resiliency criteria. In general, individual awards have ranged from $25,000 to $400,000 for single culvert replacements, depending on the project phases and work proposed. Awards over $200,000 are anticipated for construction projects only.

Only projects that intend to meet the goals of the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards will be considered for funding. Projects should be designed to facilitate fish and wildlife passage, maintain the natural movement of water and sediment through the stream crossing, and reconnect upstream and downstream habitat. Use of these standards to design culverts improves river function and access for fish and wildlife, and reduces hazards to public safety, such as flooding, culvert failure and road washout.

Massachusetts municipalities are eligible to apply for funding to support advancing single or multiple culvert replacement project(s) on the same local connected stream network.

Interested communities should view the full announcement, including funding, eligibility and evaluation criteria, on Commbuys and the DER website.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. on March 14.