Congress approves federal flood aid for Peabody

PEABODY-Peabody is one of several communities along the North Shore that is set to receive a significant amount of federal aid approved by Congress Thursday. All that stands in the way is a signature by President George W. Bush.More than $236 million from the Consolidated Appropriations Act will be spread throughout the entire state. The North Shore will receive a total of $38,439,000, of which $98,000 will be given to Peabody.The $98,000 will be used to fund a feasibility study of the North River, which runs through the downtown area of Peabody. The river, with its bad reputation of periodic flooding, has been the cause of many headaches for residents and city officials, Mayor Michael Bonfanti being one of them. The study, conducted by the Army Corps of Engineers, would help identify ways to prevent and reduce such devastating floods.?I thank both Senators (John) Kerry and Senator (Ted) Kennedy, as well as Congressman (John) Tierney for all they do for Peabody,” Bonfanti said. “This is terrific news. This new funding will greatly help the revitalization of the downtown area of Peabody.”Kerry said the money will help improve the quality of life of those who live and work on the North Shore.Kennedy echoed Kerry?s statement.?These federal investments are vital to the people of the North Shore and our whole Commonwealth, so that Massachusetts will stay at the forefront of the global economy and future generations can reach their full potential,” said Kennedy.