Biloxi to Receive $3.6M for Dock and Harbor Projects Following Katrina

The City of Biloxi will receive $3.6 million in federal Public Assistance grants to help restore the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor and the Lighthouse Fishing Dock that were severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina.

“Restoring the Biloxi Lighthouse Fishing Dock and the Small Craft Harbor will help bring back some beauty and enjoyment to this great city,” said Nick Russo, federal coordinating officer for the Mississippi disaster recovery.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved the grants, which are 90 percent of the total eligible project costs of just over $4 million. The state of Mississippi will pay 5 percent of the cost, with the City of Biloxi responsible for the remaining 5 percent.

“The restoration of these facilities not only provides recreation for residents of the Gulf Coast but is also a key part of re-establishing the tourism industry,” said Mike Womack, state coordinating officer for the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).

A grant of $2,496,077 is 90 percent of the total eligible project cost of $2,773,419 to repair damaged elements of the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor , located at 693 Beach Blvd., and return it to its pre-disaster condition. Parts of the harbor are salvageable, but others require complete reconstruction. The project will include repairs to the pavilion, decking, concrete sidewalk, infrastructure, and electrical and communications systems.

FEMA funding of $1,174,061 for the Biloxi Lighthouse Fishing Dock is 90 percent of the project cost of $1,304,512. It will be used to repair damage to decking, electrical panel boards, pilings and other key components, as well as restore the boat launch and its three access piers. The dock is located at 590 Bayview Ave. in Biloxi.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides disaster grants to reimburse state and local governments, tribal authorities and certain private non-profit organizations for eligible costs associated with debris removal and emergency measures, as well as permanent repairs and replacement of public buildings and infrastructure. MEMA is the grants manager for all Public Assistance projects in Mississippi, except for tribal nations.