House bill authorizes up to $351 million for Queens and Bronx flood projects
The water bill that passed the House covers flood control, stormwater and oyster restoration work, but the money still needs Senate action and appropriations.
A water infrastructure bill that passed the House on Wednesday, Sept. 16, authorizes up to $351 million for flood control and other water projects in Queens and the Bronx, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced.
Under provisions in the Water Resources Development Act, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would have authority for studies and work on water and wastewater systems in both boroughs. That covers stormwater and flood control in the 14th Congressional District. Queens would get up to $261 million and the Bronx up to $90 million.
What the Queens and Bronx flood funding would cover
New York’s congressional delegation, Ocasio-Cortez included, also won authorizations to restore oysters in Flushing Bay, the Bronx River and the East River. Underserved neighborhoods that struggle with complicated federal processes would get help too: the bill creates a new federal office to give them hands-on guidance and outreach.
The Queens amount is well above the $190 million the 2024 version of the act included for flooding in the borough. Ocasio-Cortez secured that money with U.S. Rep. Grace Meng and U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer.
Ocasio-Cortez tied the effort to Hurricane Ida, which killed 13 people in flash floods in 2021 and caused extensive damage to homes in both boroughs. She said the money “will allow us to strengthen our existing flood infrastructure” and help communities work with the Army Corps. She also cited a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration report projecting that sea levels along the Atlantic coast could rise seven feet by the end of the century.
Why the flood money isn’t guaranteed yet
The House vote does not secure any funding by itself. The bill still has to be reconciled with the Senate’s version before it goes to President Donald Trump to be signed. Even if the provisions become law, Congress must appropriate the money before the Army Corps can start work in either borough. The $351 million is the most Congress would appropriate for the authorized projects.
Quick answers
How much flood money is authorized for Queens and the Bronx?
Up to $351 million: up to $261 million for Queens and up to $90 million for the Bronx.
Is the flood funding guaranteed?
No. The bill must be reconciled with the Senate version and signed into law, and then Congress must appropriate the money before the Army Corps can start work.
