Rep. Panetta Secures Significant Federal Investment for Carmel River Flood Protection and Habitat Restoration
Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) secured $3 million in community project funding for the Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement Project (Carmel River FREE). This federal investment was secured through the annual FY24 appropriations process.
Carmel River FREE is one of the most extensive and important multi-benefit flood protection and habitat restoration efforts on the Central Coast. Through federal, state, local, and community funding, the project will utilize green infrastructure to reclaim the southern floodplain to direct water away from developed areas north of the Carmel River. The project represents Rep. Panetta’s continued commitment to building federal partnerships in California’s 19th Congressional District with local organizations like the Big Sur Land Trust and the County of Monterey.
“Finding the balance is necessary when it comes to safeguarding our community from flooding and protecting our natural environment,” said Rep. Panetta. “Through innovative projects and partnerships like Carmel River FREE, I’m ensuring the federal government is investing in local infrastructure initiatives that will not only better protect us against extreme weather events but also enhance the natural beauty of our home. I was proud to fight for federal support for this project and look forward to continuing to work alongside local community leaders to ensure California’s 19th Congressional District remains a leader in sustainable infrastructure and conservation.”
“We are delighted that the President signed the government funding package, H.R. 4366 the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, confirming the earmark that Congressman Panetta had been successful in advocating for the CRFREE Project,” said Supervisor Mary L. Adams. “Congressman Panetta's understanding of the solution CRFREE brings Congressional District 19, and the County of Monterey is truly appreciated. The collaboration of organizations and residents is unparalleled. The $3 million allocation helps demonstrate the magnitude of what this project will do for the County of Monterey, and we are deeply indebted to Congressman Panetta for moving this project closer to the goal line.”
Specifically, Carmel River FREE will reduce high-loss, repetitive flooding to critical state infrastructure, as well as commercial, residential, and conserved recreational lands by notching levees on the south side of the Carmel River and directing high stream flows to a restored floodplain and then to the river mouth through a new causeway (overflow bridge) under Highway 1 (SR-1). Additionally, an agricultural preserve will be constructed. Funds will be used for Carmel River FREE Project construction, including construction of the causeway overflow bridge, and the floodplain restoration and grading.
The remaining six appropriations bills for fiscal year 2024 are expected to be released in the coming days and be voted on ahead of their expiration on March 22.
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