Recent reports have suggested a degree of uncertainty within the Corps relating to future growth plans and the standards by which the Corps evaluates projects. I am concerned by these allegations, and I hope these uncertainties can be resolved expeditously.
While there is still work to be done, I am encouraged by the Corps' increased emphasis on environmental concerns. At one time, the "Army Corps" was perceived as an organization with little interest in environmental protection or restoration. Now, through programs such as Challenge 21 and the Everglades restoration, that perception is changing. I believe this is an excellent step, and I commend the Corps for its efforts to integrate environmental concerns into traditional flood control and navigation projects. I hope this work continues.
In my own home state, the Army Corps has played an important role in restoring coastal habitat, including the Galilee Salt Marsh restoration project. The Corps is also conducting several important ecoystem restoration studies, including one along the Blackstone River and another along the Southshore coast. I look forward to working with the Corps on these, and other ecosystem restoration projects, in the future.
I would also like to thank the Administration for providing funding for the Providence River Dredge project in this year's budget. The project is extremely important to Rhode Island, and I appreciate the continued support of the Corps on this issue.