On July 22, the House of Representatives approved the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA 2024) by a vote of 359 to 13. Shortly after, on August 1, the Senate passed the S. 4367 WRDA legislation. Now, the EPW Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee must settle differences between the two bills.
The WRDA is a biennial legislation that grants the US Army Corps of Engineers to begin flood control, navigation, and ecosystem restoration projects across American states. This work offers innumerable benefits for the economy, local communities, and domestic/international transportation of goods.
This year, the WRDA has multiple plans geared specifically toward addressing sea level rise, flooding, and coastal erosion. According to U.S. Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE), the Corps will continue efforts to make Delaware more “resilient in the face of extreme weather.”
His state is not alone in reaping benefits. For example, Sandwich, Mass., on Cape Cod, will receive an additional $2.5 million in funding for ongoing coastal restoration caused by canal jetties.
Key Details:
- Purpose of the Legislation: The WRDA 2024 will assist with research studies, resource allocation, shoreline protection, and ecosystem revitalization across local communities. The bill will hopefully protect against further threats of the climate crisis.
- Supporting Research: The WRDA 2024 will authorize new research studies for ecosystem restoration, flood management, and water resources.
- Infrastructure Overhauls: Various WRDA projects will help improve sewers, stormwater treatment, water storage, and wastewater infrastructure. Proper coordination between the Corps and local authorities will also be addressed.
All 50 states can expect to see advancements in the future, with over 83 feasibility studies and 13 construction projects on the docket. From infrastructure to enhanced permit status tracking, the WRDA 2024 appears to offer promises of significant progress in combating the effects of climate change.
Support of the bill is widely positive, raising applause from the ASBPA, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Parks Conservation Association, and numerous other federal and local committees.
