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Fetterman Secures Priorities in Bipartisan Water Resources Development Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works unanimously passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) which included several of U.S. Senator John Fetterman’s (D-PA) priorities to support Pennsylvania’s rivers and recreation.

“Investing in our communities, the rivers they use, and the overall recreation helps boost economies and keeps jobs  in Pennsylvania,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m grateful these priorities were included and urge my colleagues on both sides to support this package.”

The Water Resources Development Act is a biennial legislative package authorizing water infrastructure projects across the United States. Originating in the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the legislation ensures the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can make improvements to the nation’s ports, harbors, water navigation systems, flood control, and other water infrastructure and resources.

Senator Fetterman’s Priorities

Watershed Planning Section 729 directs the Army Corps to conduct a study to assess and address water resource needs and issues including the Ohio River Basin of Pennsylvania. The basin begins at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Allegheny River Recreation Designation authorizes recreational activities on the Allegheny river. This aims to boost the local economy and tourism industry, taking advantage of the natural attraction in Southwestern PA.

Harmful Algal Bloom Demonstration Program amends prior WRDA section to add lakes and reservoirs in Pennsylvania to the existing program that identifies solutions to reducing the severity and frequency of Harmful Algal Blooms.

Sec. 219 Reimbursement Authority enables the Army Corps to directly issue grants and reimbursements to local municipalities, getting money back to communities faster.

Read a section by section overview of the bill here.