An Improved Project is a project that restores the pre-disaster function, and at least the same capacity, of the damaged facility and incorporates improvements or changes to its pre-disaster design that is not required by eligible codes or standards.

For Improved Projects, the Applicant must obtain approval from the Recipient. If the Improved Project significantly changes the pre-disaster configuration of the facility, the Recipient must forward the request to FEMA to ensure that the Improved Project complies with appropriate Environmental and Historic Preservation laws, regulations, and Executive Orders.

An Alternate Project is the use of funds toward a project that does not restore the pre-disaster function of the damaged facility. If the Applicant determines the public welfare would not be best served by restoring a damaged facility or its function, it may use the funds toward a different facility (or facilities) that benefit the same community.