Environmental Defense Fund Supports Allocation of $100 Million to Build Flood Resilience in Virginia

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA - September 6, 2023 – Today during a special session, Virginia lawmakers voted to finalize amendments to the state’s upcoming fiscal year budget and have made resilience-building programs a greater priority. Once signed by Governor Youngkin, this budget allocates $100 million to the Resilient Virginia Revolving Fund and will allow local governments to help property owners finance flood resilience projects and programs across the state.  

“Environmental Defense Fund supports lawmakers’ decision to dedicate general fund resources toward resilience-building programs and projects in Virginia. Outside of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, this is the largest direct investment dedicated to state flood resilience – one that will be undoubtedly beneficial for communities at risk of more severe and frequent flood impacts. 

“With residents already experiencing the effects of climate change, ranging from sea level rise to more severe storms to increased rainfall, this funding could not come at a better time. We need quick, effective and well-financed actions to reduce the likelihood of predicted losses to Virginia’s infrastructure, ecosystems, economy and community wellbeing due to flooding. The new budget is a step in the right direction to building statewide resilience and securing a safer, more sustainable future for all Virginia residents.”  

- Emily Steinhilber, Director, Climate Resilient Coasts and Watersheds Virginia, Environmental Defense Fund