Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024
Floor Speech
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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Graves, Subcommittee Chairman Rouzer, and all the Members involved in crafting this bipartisan, bicameral agreement.
Mr. Speaker, this Water Resources Development Act stands to be successful and effective in addressing some of the critical infrastructure issues we face in central and western Pennsylvania.
For example, I am proud to have secured language stabilizing lock and dam operations along the Allegheny River. This watershed is critical to our Nation's domestic manufacturing, supporting barge traffic of raw materials, including steel, aggregates, and coal.
The navigation and ecosystem restoration project authorized by this legislation will help ensure the long-term viability of this economic corridor.
The Allegheny River has sorely needed dredging for several years to support both commercial and recreational traffic.
I am proud to have championed language in this legislation strengthening a provision from the previous WRDA to allow the Allegheny and other inland waterways to compete on a level playing field for a multiyear dredging demonstration program.
These dredging activities, in conjunction with the navigation and restoration analysis, present significant opportunities for growth and the continued success of the Allegheny.
I am also pleased to see language in this bill prioritizing levee recertification and restoration projects in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
This levee system, first built and completed in 1955, is undergoing a recertification and accreditation process with FEMA and the Army Corps.
Unfortunately, many of the necessary studies and groundwork required to be completed by the Army Corps has been delayed, threatening completion of these critical projects. Language in this legislation ensures that these projects will be prioritized for completion.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to see the Economic Development Reauthorization Act included within this legislation. The local development districts representing the communities throughout Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District do incredible work to build, strengthen, and revitalize our local economies in these rural areas.
This reauthorization incorporates several necessary updates, including reducing financial barriers for rural, small, and resource- challenged communities and allowing the EDA to invest in high-speed broadband, workforce development, and critical infrastructure gaps.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation before us today, and I encourage my colleagues to do the same.
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