Rep. Vargas Votes to Pass Water Resources Development Act, Funding for San Diego Projects

Rep. Vargas Votes to Pass Water Resources Development Act, Funding for San Diego Projects

WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) voted to pass the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024. WRDA 2024 is biennial legislation that authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to continue key projects and studies that address water and wastewater infrastructure in communities across the country, including San Diego.

"The Water Resources Development Act of 2024 makes sure we can continue to carry out essential projects and improvements in our communities. This legislation includes critical measures to address pollution in the Tijuana River Valley, improve our resilience to extreme weather events caused by climate change, and protect our ecosystems," said Rep. Vargas. "I'm proud to have helped secure these investments for south San Diego residents, and I'm committed to working with my colleagues to ensure this bill becomes law."

Rep. Vargas helped secure several key priorities in the House-passed WRDA, including:

• $200 million authorization to help address water infrastructure needs and assist the region's response to sewage pollution in the Tijuana River Valley;

• A feasibility study to investigate flood risk management in the San Diego Bay;

• A regional study to improve flood and coastal risk management in San Diego County;

• A feasibility study for a project to help ensure the long-term viability of the Sweetwater Reservoir amidst California's frequent drought conditions.

The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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