Portsmouth secures $1.1 million federal grant to tackle stormwater flooding. But is it enough?

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The City of Portsmouth has been awarded a $1.1 million federal grant to improve stormwater infrastructure in an effort to reduce flooding around Gust Lane and nearby neighborhoods. Smith has lived in Portsmouth for about 45 years and said it's something he's always considered when buying a home. City leaders said the federal funding will help address aging stormwater infrastructure and improve drainage around the Gust Lane and Deep Creek Boulevard area. What's needed is gonna take far more than that, especially in that area over there on Gust Lane," Smith said. For now, city leaders said the federal grant is an important first step toward improving stormwater infrastructure and reducing flooding in one of Portsmouth's most flood-prone areas.