Magaziner Announces Funding for South Kingstown Town Beach

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. - Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined South Kingstown leaders to announce $250,000 of federal funding he secured to help protect South Kingstown Town Beach from erosion and extreme weather, reduce flooding in the area, and ensure public access to the Town Beach for years to come.

View or download photos from the event here.

View or download video of the press conference here.

"Everyone should have the ability to enjoy the beaches and other natural wonders that make Rhode Island so special," said Magaziner. "While erosion, severe weather, and aging infrastructure threaten Rhode Island's public spaces, I am proud to deliver $250,000 to South Kingstown to make improvements to the Town Beach that will protect our public spaces and ensure the beach is accessible for all Rhode Islanders for years to come."

"We are grateful to Congressman Magaziner for championing this $250,000 investment in South Kingstown's coastal resilience. South Kingstown Town Beach has consistently been a community priority in our Capital Improvement Plan, but additional support like this federal funding is essential to moving necessary projects forward in a timely manner. This investment will help us protect the Town Beach and preserve a treasured community resource forgenerations to come," said South Kingstown Town Manager James Manni.

"Our Parks Division staff are exceptional stewards of the Town Beach, and their daily care must be supported by lasting improvements that protect this special place from erosion and storm damage. We sincerely thank Congressman Magaziner for securing this funding, which builds on our previous investments and helps keep the beach safe, accessible, and welcoming forgenerations to come," said Theresa Murphy, Director of Leisure Services.

This federal funding will be used to make improvements to South Kingstown Town Beach to protect the public space from erosion, reduce nearby flooding, and help preserve public access to the beach. This funding will support South Kingstown's larger efforts to maintain and protect the beach from challenges posed by erosion and extreme weather.

Erosion has caused the shoreline to steadily move inland, contributing to flooding at the beach's playground, picnic area, and parking lot and threatening structures such as the boardwalk. The project is expected to include relocating the playground and improving drainage to redirect stormwater away from vulnerable areas.

The funding will also support stormwater and drainage infrastructure improvements along nearby Matunuck Beach Road, which is currently prone to flooding during nor'easters and severe storms, posing a public safety risk.

In addition, the project will create Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible pathways so people with mobility impairments can safely reach the shoreline and enjoy the beach during the spring and summer months.

Magaziner secured the funding through the Fiscal Year 2026 government appropriations legislation.