Fenwick Island Forges Ahead on Flood Mitigation Despite Funding Setback

May 12, 2025
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Fenwick Island is continuing its efforts to combat bayside flooding, even after an integral & major federal grant was unexpectedly eliminated and is unable to be provided for the town.

At the April 25th Town Council meeting, local officials addressed the recent cancellation of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) BRIC (Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities) grant. 

The town had applied for $400,000 through the program to study and solve ongoing flooding concerns. However, FEMA deemed the grant “wasteful and ineffective,” cutting the program and redirecting much of its $1 billion budget.

Urgency Despite Obstacles

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Mayor Natalie Magdeburger stressed that flooding remains the town's top concern. “We see it, we recognize the dangers,” she said. 

The town still hopes to develop a comprehensive mitigation plan, including evaluating existing riprap and bulkheads that may need elevation or replacement.

Magdeburger emphasized that without a full plan, only temporary fixes are possible. “We’re going to have to save, beg for funding, and prioritize essential projects,” she added.

Next Steps and Pilot Projects

With no backup funding plan in place, the Infrastructure Committee is reassessing priorities. 

At the mayor’s suggestion, the council unanimously voted to revisit the town’s previous request for engineering proposals and consider narrowing the scope to focus on critical areas.

Infrastructure Committee Chair, Susan Brennan, shared that a pilot project is already in motion:

  • A “living shoreline” will be developed at the canal end of Farmington Street
  • Natural materials will be used in hopes of creating a sustainable model for flood prevention

Looking Ahead

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Despite financial setbacks, Fenwick Island’s leadership remains committed to proactive solutions. 

Studies suggest that by 2050, 75% of the bayside may be underwater, underscoring the urgency of long-term planning.

Other updates from the April meeting include:

  • A parking rate increase from $3 to $4 per hour, starting in the 2025 season
  • The upcoming retirement of Finance Director, Dean Gary

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Source: Coastal Point