Today, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA-34), and Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-28) released the following statements commending the leadership of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for including the authorization of the Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration Project in the Water Resources and Development Act of 2016 (WRDA).

Last week, 12 members of the Los Angeles area congressional delegation urged the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to include authorization for the Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration in the 2016 WRDA.  The letter is attached here.

The Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration project would restore and revitalize certain areas of the river.  The project would also build new public spaces, create recreational opportunities, and boost the regional economy. 
 
“I have spent more than a decade leading the fight to restore the LA River ecosystem, so that Angelenos may enjoy a healthier, rejuvenated Los Angeles.  A revitalized LA River will improve public health, strengthen our economy, and bolster pride in our communities,” said Congresswoman Roybal-Allard.  “I am very pleased that the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has drafted a bill to authorize the project and start the LA River revitalization.  Once the project is underway, we can then begin the process of continuing this project through our Southeast communities, and extending the benefits of revitalization to every downriver neighborhood between Downtown and the ocean.”

“For the million-plus Angelenos living along the Los Angeles River’s path, inclusion of the LA River project in this year’s WRDA bill is cause for excitement,” said Congressman Becerra.  “I applaud the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for recognizing the tremendous value a revitalized river would have on our region.  We’ve come this far in writing a new chapter for the LA River and we won’t stop until it’s done.”

“I’m pleased that the Los Angeles River project is included in this year’s WRDA bill,” said Congressman Schiff.  “After years of strong advocacy by Los Angeles residents wanting more green space as a retreat from urban life, we are finally within striking distance, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to see this project through to completion.”

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