Section 830-RICR-10-40-1.5 - Project Categories and Eligible CostsA. Applications for funds to support resiliency related infrastructure planning processes will not be considered. Resiliency related infrastructure project planning processes that have identified possible resiliency related infrastructure projects should be substantially completed before the project state date.B. Resiliency related infrastructure projects whose primary purpose is to undertake scientific research, data analyses or vulnerability assessments will not be considered. However, funds can be utilized for data collection as part of monitoring activities to track progress and determine the effectiveness of the implemented resiliency related infrastructure project.C. Resiliency related infrastructure projects must show a clear nexus between climate change impacts being experienced in Rhode Island communities and the proposed project benefits.D. Project Categories.1. The following categories of projects will be considered either alone or in combination: a. Removal, Relocation or Redesign of Infrastructure - engineering and construction projects to redesign, relocate or remove vulnerable facilities and infrastructure (e.g., culverts, dams, buildings/facilities, roadways/evacuation routes in both coastal and riverine areas) to protect and preserve function over the design life of the infrastructure or eliminate risk by removing the structure, given projected climate change impacts (e.g. increasing precipitation, sea level rise and increasing temperatures).b. Nature-Based Solutions - projects that protect or enhance Rhode Island's natural systems in the face of projected climate change impacts. Projects can include green infrastructure projects that utilize vegetation and pervious surfaces to manage coastal, riverine, and inland flooding, erosion and storm damage. Projects can also include the restoration of natural shorelines and riparian habitats so as to enhance the protection of communities.E. Project Costs 1. The following types of costs are eligible to be paid for from financial assistance provided from the MRP pursuant to this Part: a. Environmental consulting.b. Engineering consulting.c. Legal and other direct project related professional servicesd. Plantings, reforestation, landscaping.g. Professional survey services.h. Land acquisition activities.j. Personnel costs directly related to the performance of the project.2. Types of costs that are ineligible to receive monies from the MRP include: a. Administrative costs including clerical support, monthly utility expenses, the purchase of office equipment, personnel costs associated with fund raising for the nongovernmental entity, etc.b. State or federal lobbying costs.c. Response costs for emergency response actions caused or exacerbated solely by the applicant or their agents or assigns.d. Any fines, damages, assessments, settlements or other monies paid in connection with any litigation or administrative proceeding with any local, state or federal regulatory agencies.830 R.I. Code R. 830-RICR-10-40-1.5
Adopted effective 7/11/2023