Representative Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced an additional $25 million in federal reimbursement for the San Antonio/Bexar County Mission Reach Project in the fiscal year 2019 “minibus” Appropriations Bill package, which includes the Energy and Water, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch funding bills. This package of bills will be voted on today.

The Mission Reach Project is a United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) project to prevent San Antonio River flooding and restore natural plant and animal habitats. Money to complete the project was loaned to the USACE by Bexar County. USACE has been slowly paying back the funds thanks to the help of Representatives Cuellar, Hurd, and other members of the San Antonio Congressional Delegation. To date, the project has received $30.8 million in reimbursement. Under this bill, the project is expected to receive an additional $25 million, provided that the USACE continues to prioritize this funding through their FY19 Work Plan.

“I would like to thank my fellow Appropriators, Appropriations Energy and Water Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson and Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur, for their assistance in including this language, along with Senator Cornyn and the San Antonio Delegation – Reps. Will Hurd, Lamar Smith, Joaquin Castro, and Lloyd Doggett— for their help in repaying these Bexar County funds,” said Congressman Cuellar. “I would also like to recognize the San Antonio River Authority for their tireless work on this important project.”

“The Mission Reach project has been a huge success and undoubtedly benefited the entire San Antonio and Bexar County community. It is time for Bexar County to be reimbursed in full for the loan it provided to the Corps so it can reinvest these funds into other important projects to benefit our citizens. I’m glad to see the Committee on Appropriations embrace this effort and include language in this year’s bill.”

According to the San Antonio River Authority, “The Mission Reach Ecosystem Restoration and Recreation Project has transformed an eight-mile stretch of the San Antonio River into a quality riparian woodland ecosystem. This unique project restores riverine features and riparian woodlands, reintroduces native plants, enhances aquatic habitat, and reconnects cultural and historical features.”

See video of Congressman Cuellar speaking on the House floor here.