For Immediate Release

May 25, 2005

Washington, DC - Late yesterday, the House of Representatives approved the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006 (H.R. 2419) by a vote of 416 to 13. The bill includes funding for three important ongoing Houston water projects.  Congressman Gene Green (D-Houston) secured funding in the House bill for the Houston Ship Channel deepening and widening project ($26 million), Hunting Bayou Federal flood control project ($500,000) and Greens Bayou Federal flood control project ($150,000) and will continue to work for additional funding during the House-Senate conference committee process.

 

            The Houston Ship Channel Deepening and Widening Project received $26 million in construction funding and $3.2 million for operations and maintenance.  The Administration’s budget requested $24 million and $3.2 million respectively.

 

“The bill ensures completion of the 45 foot channel and starts construction of barge lanes necessary for safety and environmental restoration work,” said Green.  “I will continue to push for additional funds for the Ship Channel in conference with the Senate.”

 

            Green expressed disappointment in the Operations and Maintenance funding: “Nickel-and-diming operations and maintenance undermines the benefits of the investments we have made. Our channels can silt up quickly without maintenance dredging, reducing efficiency and safety.”  The Army Corps of Engineers capability for the Houston Ship Channel is $8.8 million, $5.6 million more than the $3.2 million in the President’s budget and in the Committee bill.

 

            The Committee’s bill also includes $500,000 for Hunting Bayou and $150,000 for Greens Bayou, both of which were zeroed out in the Administration’s budget.

 

“We saved these projects from the steep Administration budget cuts,” Green said.  “We know from experience that Hunting and Greens Bayous are major flood risks and are crying out for investment to protect thousands of our homes and businesses.” 

 

            Construction for both Hunting and Greens Bayous is slated to begin in 2006.  Final agreements on the projects are currently being negotiated between the Harris County Flood Control District and the Army Corps of Engineers.

 

            “I am thankful that the Committee, in particular my colleague Congressman Chet Edwards (D-Waco), helped secure funding for these three projects,” added Green.

 

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