Washington, D.C. - Representative Howard Berman (D-CA) announced today that Congress has earmarked funds for two critical environmental projects in the 28th congressional district. These funds, requested by Berman, were designated in the conference report accompanying H.R. 2419, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006. The House passed the bill today and the Senate is expected to pass the bill tomorrow. The projects are:

 

$150,000 -- Sun Valley Watershed Project. This is an ongoing project that has already received some federal funds. The Sun Valley Watershed is a $2,800-acre (4.4-square mile) urban watershed tributary to the Los Angeles River, located approximately 14 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Berman stated the following: The community has experienced severe, chronic flooding for well over 40 years. The underserved, urban Sun Valley community suffers a lack of recreational opportunities, aesthetics, and wildlife habitat. This project directly combats this problem. Today's rain is a reminder of its importance. Project Contacts: Brian Moore, Army Corp of Engineers, 213-452-3971 or Donald L. Wolfe, Acting Director of County Public Works, 626-458-4309.

 

$431,000 -- Tujunga Wash Restoration Phase Two. This is an ongoing project that has also already received federal funds. The project will create a naturalized streamcourse along the west bank of a 3/4-mile reach of the Tujunga Wash within the City of Los Angeles. Berman explained, "The Wash is an environmental jewel and this project will both help improve and increase our groundwater supply and provide additional habitat area, passive recreation, and aesthetic beauty to the region. Project Contacts: Brian Moore, Army Corp of Engineers, 213-452-3971 or Donald L. Wolfe, Acting Director of County Public Works, 626-458-4309