Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced that the House passed the Conference Report on H.R. 1495, the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (WRDA), which authorizes approximately $14 billion for water resources studies and construction projects, and includes several provisions by Congressman Cuellar to initiate water programs in Texas’ 28th District.

The conference report, which passed the House by a vote of 381-40, will now be sent to the President’s desk for signature.

In Dilley, a project is authorized to reduce flood damage as determined by the Secretary of the Army.  The project reaffirms the commitment of the federal government to help improve water resources infrastructure and address new water resources needs.

“The Congressional passage of WRDA is a significant step towards improving the lives of the citizens of Dilley.  The project will help reduce flood damage and enhance the area by providing essential resources to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,” said Congressman Cuellar. “I applaud my colleagues in Congress for passing this important piece of legislation.”

WRDA also provides for other assistance in South Texas, including projects in the Rio Grande Basin and in the San Antonio Channel.  In the Lower Rio Grande Basin and San Antonio Channel, the Secretary of the Army will be able to review the possibility of further progress in flood control and determine what steps should be taken to plan and design construction work. 

In working on water infrastructure along the United States-Mexico Border, special assistance will be given to Colonias projects in Webb, Zapata, Starr and Hidalgo Counties.

“It is imperative that we address the water resource and flood damage reduction needs of South Texas.  I remain committed to working in Congress to help South Texas to further progress and improve our communities,” said Congressman Cuellar. 

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.
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