The Chief's Report for the New York/New Jersey Harbor Navigation Study recommends deepening the entrance channel to 53 feet, and all other major channels in the Port to a depth of 50 feet. This report represents three years of comprehensive study, authorized in WRDA 96, on the navigation needs of the Port of New York and New Jersey. I support the report in its entirety.
In 1791, Alexander Hamilton wrote of the efficiencies to be gained by the involvement of the Federal Government in the development of waterways for commerce in his "Report on Manufactures." Throughout the 1800s, support for Federal involvement in navigation and commerce solidified. In 1899, Congress passed the River and Harbor Act, giving regulatory authority to the Army Corps of Engineers for any construction within navigable waters of the United States. Mr. Chairman, the New York/ New Jersey Harbor project represents the essence of this mission.
The Port of New York and New Jersey is the third largest port in North America and the top export port in the country. It is a vital economic engine. As trade continues to expand, we must be prepared to make serious investments in our nation's infrastructure to ensure our ability to be competitive internationally. Authorization of the New York/ New Jersey Harbor project in its entirety is paramount to the continued economic vitality of the Port, the states of New York and New Jersey, the entire northeast region, and indeed, the nation. I look forward to working with my colleagues in developing the Water Resources Development Act of 2000.