Foster Supports Bipartisan Legislation To Maintain And Develop Waterways Infrastructure

Washington, DC – May 21, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) voted for H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA). The legislation will now be sent to the Senate for a final vote. WRRDA authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to construct and maintain infrastructure on the Inland Waterways System. Several facilities in Illinois’ 11th District are funded through WRRDA, including the Brandon Road Lock and Dam.

“I am pleased that today the House passed the Water Resources Reform and Development Act with strong bipartisan support,” said Foster. “This funding for the construction and maintenance of our waterways infrastructure is essential for facilities in our region. Last year I had the opportunity to tour the Brandon Road Lock and Dam in Joliet and see first-hand the need for maintenance and infrastructure improvements. The legislation passed today will support commerce and the safety of our inland waterways infrastructure. I urge the Senate to take prompt action.”

The Brandon Road Lock and Dam is part of the inland waterways system in northern Illinois that enables lower transportation costs and supports commerce. In 2011, Nearly 11 million tons of freight passed through the Des Plaines River facility which connects the Illinois River to Lake Michigan. Freight transported on the river includes coal, petroleum, chemicals, manufactured goods, machinery and agricultural products.