The Introduction of the Washington Channel Bill

Floor Speech

* Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, this non-controversial bill, which the House passed by unanimous consent in the 111th Congress, will allow development at the Southwest Waterfront in the District of Columbia. This bill will benefit not only D.C. residents, but also regional residents, businesses and national and international visitors, by permitting the District to extend docks and increase recreation and maritime activity just an eyeshot from the U.S. Capitol. The District urgently needs this bill to finalize plans for the Southwest Waterfront, which it hopes to convert into an attractive location for residents and visitors alike.

* In order for the District to make these improvements, the Federal Government must redesignate part of the water designated by the Federal Government as the Washington Channel, so that more and larger docks can be built by the District to accommodate increased boating and waterside activity. The original width of the Washington Channel was established in the early 1800s, prior to the construction of East Potomac Park, to accommodate industrial and maritime commerce at the Southwest Waterfront. Today, however, the Southwest Waterfront is no longer a major port and does not accommodate large vessels. In fact, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have agreed that this redesignation will not affect navigation interests or adversely affect navigation safety.

* I ask Members to support this non-controversial change to reinvigorate the Southwest Waterfront for the city, region and visitors to enjoy.

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