Michigan State Police Open Federal Hazard Mitigation Grants for West Michigan Communities After Court Order Restores Program

Federal Funding Returns to Protect West Michigan from Natural Disasters

The Michigan State Police and Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division announced today the opening of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant program for fiscal year 2025, allowing West Michigan communities to apply for federal funding to reduce damage from natural hazards.

The BRIC program provides federal funding to support hazard mitigation projects designed to reduce or eliminate future property damage and loss of life from natural hazards, including floods, tornadoes and severe storms. The program prioritizes infrastructure and construction projects that deliver measurable risk reduction and strengthen community resilience.

"BRIC funding provides communities the opportunity to take proactive steps to reduce risk before disaster strikes," said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police and state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. "By investing in infrastructure and mitigation now, we help protect lives, safeguard critical services and ensure Michigan communities grow stronger and more resilient for the future."

Court Order Restores Previously Terminated Program

The announcement follows a recent federal court order requiring the restoration of the BRIC program. In December 2025, a federal court ruled that the termination of the congressionally mandated program was unlawful. On March 6, 2026, the court granted further relief, ordering FEMA to take steps to reverse the termination and make funding available as required by law.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined a coalition of states in securing the court order to restore the program. "Every dollar FEMA spends on mitigation saves $6 in post-disaster costs," said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. "By securing these court orders, we've cleared the way for critical BRIC funding to flow back into our state, allowing the Michigan State Police to resume the work of fortifying our communities against natural disasters. I look forward to seeing the life-saving impact of this next round of proposals."

Significant Funding History for Michigan

Over the past several years, FEMA has selected nearly 2,000 projects nationwide totaling approximately $4.5 billion in BRIC funding. In Michigan, 22 projects have been selected in recent years, totaling more than $19 million in federal funding.

Grant Categories and Requirements

For fiscal year 2025, BRIC funding includes three categories:

• Hazard Mitigation Projects — Nationally competitive funding for cost-effective infrastructure and construction projects designed to increase resilience and public safety and reduce damage to property and critical facilities. Only projects with at least a conceptual design are eligible; phased projects are not eligible.

• Building Code Plus-Up — Funding to support the adoption and enforcement of current hazard-resistant building codes, including evaluation, adoption and workforce development activities related to building codes.

• State Allocation Funding — Funding available to each state for smaller-scale hazard mitigation projects and project scoping for future infrastructure mitigation efforts.

Most grants are funded with a 75% federal share and a 25% non-federal match. The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division serves as the applicant for the State of Michigan. Eligible subapplicants include state agencies, federally recognized tribal governments and local governments.

West Michigan Impact

This funding opportunity is particularly relevant for West Michigan communities that face significant risk from flooding, severe storms, and other natural hazards. Cities and counties in Kent, Kalamazoo, Ottawa, and Allegan counties have historically been among the most affected by these weather events.

The grant program allows local governments, state agencies, and tribal governments to submit proposals for projects that will directly benefit their communities. This could include upgrading drainage systems, reinforcing critical infrastructure, and implementing other mitigation measures that protect homes, businesses, and emergency services.

Application Process

Community leaders and local government officials in West Michigan should contact their state representatives for guidance on applying for these grants. The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division coordinates emergency preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation activities across the state and works closely with local, tribal, state and federal partners to help protect Michigan residents and communities.

For more information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, residents should visit MIREADY and follow the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division on X and Facebook.

Media Contact: Clayton Cummins, MSP/EMHSD Public Information Officer, CumminsC3@michigan.gov, 517-730-8818