WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Third District Congressman Jon Porter announced that he has secured funding for two Southern Nevada projects as part of H.R. 2361, the FY 2006 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.  The conference report on this legislation will be voted on in the House and Senate this week before going to the President for his signature.

Porter secured $1 million in funding for the Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant in Henderson.  These funds will support the design of a full-scale wastewater treatment plant project that will use membrane technology to provide reclaimed water for irrigation and industrial uses.  These funds are in addition to $5 million Porter secured for the project as part of the Water Resources Development Act of 2005, which passed the House July 14.

“Membrane technology produces high quality treated wastewater for irrigation of parks, trails, golf courses, roadway medians and other recreational and landscape areas in one simple step that is faster and less costly than traditional treatment methods,” said Porter.  “Completion of this project will result in increased water conservation and decreased outflows into the ecologically-sensitive Las Vegas Wash.”

Additionally, Porter secured $500,000 for the preservation of the U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in Las Vegas.  Constructed in 1933 as part of a national federal building campaign, the Post Office and Courthouse is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  The federal government conveyed the property to the City of Las Vegas in 2002 with specific covenants for its preservation and intended use as a museum and cultural center.  The funds secured by Porter will be used to ensure that the building envelope, including cladding and windows, are weather tight.  Existing leaks, loose glazing and sealant issues will also be addressed.

“The U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in Las Vegas is truly one of Nevada’s historic treasures.  When the federal government conveyed the property to the City of Las Vegas in 2002, the city took on the responsibility of preserving the building and ensuring its long-term stability.  These funds will go a long way in helping city officials make necessary improvements so that the Post Office is around for future generations to appreciate,” Porter stated.

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