Trump EPA announces $2,154,000 to protect North Carolina waterways from sewage

Raleigh, N.C. (April 30, 2026) - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of approximately $80 million through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program to help communities address stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs. These grants will strengthen systems that safely capture and manage stormwater to help prevent contaminants, including untreated sewage, from polluting nearby waterways. The agency will provide funding from both fiscal years 2025 and 2026 totaling $2,154,000 to North Carolina, which will be awarded to communities there.  

"Stormwater and sewage systems are critical for managing pollution to keep our nation's waterways clean and support healthy people, economic growth, and thriving ecosystems," said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. "This $80 million investment will help states upgrade stormwater management systems to address the threat of aging and inadequate infrastructure."

"These funds will provide meaningful support as our communities make much needed improvements to their stormwater and sewer infrastructure," said Regional Administrator Kevin McOmber. "The people who call these communities home deserve clean waterways to protect their health and to attract businesses and grow their economies."

Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern. It can collect various pollutants, including trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment, and convey them to nearby waterways. When mixed with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storm events.   

Safely and effectively managing stormwater to reduce pollution before it reaches local waterways is essential. However, the cost to construct, operate, and maintain stormwater infrastructure can be significant, which can strain wastewater systems and their customers, especially in small and financially distressed communities. The agency's Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program will prioritize projects for small and/or financially distressed communities. Under the existing regulations, state grantees are not required to contribute cost shares for projects located in small and/or financially distressed communities.  

###