House Approves Additional Funds For Arcadia/Sierra Madre Water Project

November 8, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Emphasizing the importance of “protecting a safe drinking water supply for communities throughout Southern California,” Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, voted today to approve legislation that included $1.8 million for the Arcadia/Sierra Madre Water System Seismic Reliability Project. The funding was included in the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act Conference Report, or H.R. 2620, which passed the House 401-18.

“For the last six years, I’ve been very pleased to have helped the communities of Sierra Madre and Arcadia secure and protect a safe drinking water supply,” Dreier said. “As many Southern Californians know, a clean, reliable drinking water supply is one of the most important things needed after an earthquake. These communities have wisely taken a long term approach to protecting their water supply in the event of a natural disaster.”

Arcadia Mayor Mickey Segal expressed his appreciation for Congressman Dreier’s efforts to see that the funding was included. “We are deeply indebted to Congressman Dreier for his efforts to secure this funding in the Conference Committee,” he said. “Since 1996, Congressman Dreier has been a driving force to protect the San Gabriel Valley’s water supply, and this has resulted in nearly $8 million for our two communities. His commitment will ensure an adequate emergency water supply for our citizens now and in the future.”

Dreier noted that smaller cities like Arcadia and Sierra Madre often cannot fund initiatives like the Seismic Reliability Project on their own. “With a project such as this so critical to the well being of Southern Californians, it’s important for the federal government to help out where it can. After working on this project with the local officials for so many years, I know that this funding to key to its success.”