Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham announced that the state has approved $30.8 million in regional mitigation funds to strengthen critical infrastructure across 11 counties and cities.
The funding will upgrade roads, drainage systems, sewers, and water detention facilities in areas still recovering from past natural disasters.
“Texans know how to face challenges head-on, and the GLO is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with communities as we invest in stronger, safer infrastructure,” Commissioner Buckingham said. “This funding will help harden critical systems, protect families, and support the future of our great state.”
The Texas General Land Office approved $30,889,864.23 through its Regional Mitigation Program. Projects will span Austin, Brazoria, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris, Matagorda, Victoria, Wharton, and Wilson counties, as well as the cities of Nixon and Portland.
Buckingham emphasized the agency’s commitment to cutting bureaucratic delays.
“We are cutting through red tape and taking decisive action so that these projects can move forward and make a real difference in the lives of Texans,” she said.
The funding comes from a larger $1.17 billion allocation in Community Development Block Grant Mitigation funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. These federal dollars aim to reduce risks from future natural disasters.
At least half the funds must benefit low- to moderate-income residents, according to HUD requirements. Each regional Council of Government developed distribution methods through public participation processes.
The GLO directs communities to its Regional Mitigation Program webpage for detailed project descriptions. Local governments submitted proposals based on their most pressing infrastructure needs.