Flood Infrastructure Fund

The Flood Infrastructure Fund (FIF) program is administered by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), a state agency responsible for managing water-related financial assistance programs across Texas. The FIF program was authorized by the Texas Legislature and supported by voter approval through a constitutional amendment, reflecting a statewide commitment to mitigating flood risks and enhancing water infrastructure resilience. For the State Fiscal Year 2026–2027 funding cycle, the TWDB has developed a Draft Intended Use Plan (IUP) that outlines how funds will be distributed, prioritized, and administered. The program is funded through legislative appropriations, including more than $624 million allocated during the 88th Legislative Session, with at least $312.4 million anticipated for use during this biennium. The primary purpose of the FIF program is to provide financial assistance for flood control, flood mitigation, and drainage projects across Texas. These efforts aim to reduce flood risks, protect life and property, and support long-term water management strategies. Eligible project activities include planning and design, feasibility assessments, regulatory approvals, and construction or rehabilitation of infrastructure. The program also supports innovative and multi-purpose projects that can capture or redirect floodwaters for beneficial use, including water supply development. Additionally, the program allows for non-structural and nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration, permeable pavement, and green stormwater infrastructure. Funding is available in the form of grants and zero-interest loans, depending on eligibility and project category. There are three primary categories of funding: Flood Management Evaluations (FME), Flood Mitigation Projects (FMP), and Flood Management Strategies (FMS), along with an option for federal award matching funds. Grant percentages vary by category and are influenced by factors such as the Annual Median Household Income (AMHI) of the project area, rural status, and inclusion of nature-based solutions. Funding caps apply, with maximum grant amounts of $5 million for FME and FMS projects and $15 million for FMP projects. Loans are offered at a 0% interest rate, with repayment terms varying based on project type. Eligibility for the program is limited to political subdivisions within Texas, including cities, counties, and certain districts or authorities established under the Texas Constitution. Nonprofit water supply corporations and other entities may qualify under specific categories, particularly for planning-related activities. All projects must be recommended in an approved Regional Flood Plan and align with the State Flood Plan to be considered. Additional requirements include compliance with floodplain management standards, submission of required documentation such as memoranda of understanding when applicable, and demonstration of coordination with other affected jurisdictions. The application process follows a structured, two-stage approach. First, applicants submit an abridged application that provides essential project information used for prioritization. Projects are then scored based on established criteria derived from the State Flood Plan, including technical merit and community impact factors. Based on ranking and funding availability, selected applicants are invited to submit a full application, which includes detailed engineering, financial, and legal documentation. Final funding decisions are made by the TWDB Board following review and recommendation by the Executive Administrator. For the 2026–2027 cycle, the public comment period for the Draft IUP began on May 13, 2026, and ends on June 12, 2026. Following this period, the TWDB will release the abridged application and open the solicitation phase. While exact submission deadlines for applications are not yet published, stakeholders are encouraged to monitor program updates and participate in the process early. The program operates on a biennial cycle, and funds are distributed based on prioritization lists and regional equity considerations. Overall, the FIF program represents a significant investment in flood resilience and infrastructure planning across Texas.

Ensure full alignment with Regional and State Flood Plans and provide accurate data for prioritization scoring