LOC News
FEMA Ends BRIC Program, Jeopardizing City Projects
In early April, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced it will no longer fund the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program – halting nearly $900 million in anticipated awards and stopping payments to current recipients. This change stems from a broader federal shift in disaster planning responsibilities under a recent executive order signed by President Trump.
What BRIC Provided:
The BRIC program was a key tool for cities working to reduce long-term disaster risk. It funded projects like flood mitigation systems, wildfire prevention efforts, water infrastructure upgrades, and modernized building codes. Cities could apply through a competitive national process, often receiving up to 75% of project costs from FEMA.
Impact on Cities in Oregon:
- Stalled Progress: Cities in Oregon with BRIC-supported projects in early phases may need to pause or cancel work.
- Budget Gaps: Communities that planned around BRIC funding will need to reassess timelines and scale.
- Greater Future Risk: Without BRIC’s match, many cities will struggle to pursue proactive hazard mitigation – potentially increasing costs and damages in future disasters.
The end of BRIC undercuts a critical federal partnership for city-led disaster resilience. Without it, Oregon communities are left to shoulder more of the cost and risk of preparing for climate-driven events and other natural hazards.
Here is a list of impacted cities in Oregon.
Contact: Michael Martin, Lobbyist - mmartin@orcities.org
Last Updated 4/25/25