Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt has expressed her support for the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which was recently passed by the Senate. The bill includes significant investments in Alabama's water infrastructure, notably a directive for the Army Corps of Engineers to use at least 70% of suitable dredged material for beneficial purposes. This provision also calls for collaboration with local stakeholders regarding dredging and material placement in Mobile Harbor.

"Dredging in the Mobile harbor and ship channel is critical to Alabama and our economy," stated Senator Britt. "The dredging provision in the 2024 WRDA bill will ensure we can balance both the Port’s role as a vital channel for commerce in our state and the need to conserve our natural resources and protect Alabama the Beautiful. Whether it’s sand to restore Dauphin Island or material for wetlands creation, it’s our responsibility to steward these resources and ensure their beneficial use at every turn."

The WRDA bill authorizes projects under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program aimed at enhancing ports, harbors, inland waterways navigation, flood protection, storm protection, and other water resources infrastructure across the nation.

Alabama boasts nearly 1,270 miles of navigable inland waterways that connect with over 15,000 miles of waterways spanning 23 states. The Port of Mobile is a significant player in national and global trade and was recently recognized as one of the fastest-growing ports in the United States.

In addition to provisions related to waterway navigation and environmental management, the WRDA bill addresses federal real estate efficiency by setting occupancy standards and selling unused properties. It also reauthorizes and updates the Economic Development Administration (EDA) after nearly two decades.

Senator Britt previously led efforts within Alabama's delegation to advocate for Operations and Maintenance funding for Alabama's inland waterway system due to concerns about lock failures. As part of her role on the Senate Committee on Appropriations, she secured almost $73 million in direct spending for FY24 Energy and Water Development Act projects involving the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.