The River Avenue neighborhood lies within the Pocasset River watershed. Residential, industrial, and commercial development over the years has resulted in major flood risks in this low-lying neighborhood.

The Pocasset River Flood Damage Reduction Project aims to combine voluntary buyouts and historic floodplain restoration to increase community flood resilience, create more green space, and restore habitat. 

Participation is 100% voluntary. If residents choose to participate, an appraisal of their property will be conducted free of charge to determine the fair market value as the basis for an offer of just compensation. Upon consideration, if a resident accepts the offer and agrees to sell their property at the amount established as just compensation, it will be acquired. If the offer is declined the property will not be acquired. Properties purchased will have the structures demolished and will be restored to natural floodplain conditions.

Persons with disabilities who require accommodations to participate in this meeting should contact Allie Brown, Disability SEPM, at Allie.Brown@usda.gov or 401-822-8841, or dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunication relay services.

USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider, Employer, and Lender.