Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Filemon Vela (TX-34) joined his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives in passing the final Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (WRDA).
The bill, which was conferenced by House and Senate legislatures, is critical for South Texas’ seaports, flood protection, ecosystem restoration, and other water resources infrastructure.
“I am pleased the final version of WRDA 2020 includes legislative provisions important to the district,” said Congressman Filemon Vela. “The bill authorizes the Lower Rio Grande Valley Watershed Feasibility Study so action can be taken to address flooding and stormwater issues in the region, and increases federal flood control work in low income communities. For my district in Texas and those who have suffered from devastating floods, this bill takes vital steps to improve flood control infrastructure and reduce the future risk and potential for damage from such disasters. The legislation also addresses beach nourishment and channel maintenance relief, and unlocks much needed funds from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund important for the Port of Brownsville.
“It was an honor to work with the National Wildlife Federation to secure provisions to encourage the use of natural infrastructure in flood control projects and decrease costs to local governments when using natural infrastructure in Army Corps projects, and I look forward to continuing this collaboration in Congress.”
“Hidalgo County is thankful for the efforts of Congressman Filemon Vela to include language in the proposed WRDA bill that will have a beneficial impact to our area,” said Hidalgo County Commissioner David Fuentes. “Through our collaborative work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, proposed feasibility studies, flood controls projects and other infrastructure projects, will assist us with achieving more flood resiliency.”
“Flood mitigation plans and restoration projects are of major importance to us in Cameron County as we have several areas that unfortunately succumb to the aftermath of a tropical storm or hurricane season,” said Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr. “I applaud Congressman Vela and Congress for moving forward with the WRDA legislation that amongst other things will approve projects for flood damage reduction that will help urban and rural residents. The WRDA’s set forth plan will also ensure that Ports, Harbors, and inland waterways remain competitive, while the quality of life of our communities improve and become more resilient.”
"As a barrier island community, erosion and sea-level rise are common issues we are continually fighting,” said City of South Padre Island Mayor. “Beach renourishment is one of the best methods to protect and maintain the beach, which ensures memorable experiences for our visitors and our community. We are very appreciative to Congressman Vela and the US Army Corps of Engineers for their consistent support with these projects." Patrick McNulty, City of South Padre Island Mayor
“This forward-thinking bill will better prepare the nation for extreme weather, elevating nature’s ability to protect communities and helping to level the playing field for flooding solutions that incorporate natural systems, such as wetlands, dunes, and floodplains,” said Jessie Ritter, director of water resources and coastal policy for the National Wildlife Federation. “Importantly, it also provides extra support to disadvantaged communities to meet their resilience needs.”
To read the final version of WRDA 2020, click here.
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