Congresswoman Doris Matsui Announces Water Resources Development Act Becomes Law
Folsom Dam Joint Federal Project to Commence in January
Friday, November 9, 2007
Today, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-5) announced that the President’s veto of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) was overridden by Congress and has become law. Under this legislation, the Folsom Dam Joint Federal project will receive $683 million in federal funding. The groundbreaking of this landmark project will occur on Jan. 11, 2008.
The JFP is designated for completion in 2015 and will provide the Sacramento region with up to 240 years of flood protection. A joint project to be undertaken by the Bureau of Reclamation and the Army Corps of Engineers, the innovative project will build a spillway adjacent to Folsom Dam. The entire project will come with a price tag of $1.3 billion, which will be a combination of federal, state and local funds.
"Today is a great day for Sacramento. After seven long years, we have a Water Resources Act that will improve our flood protection and invest in our safety," said Rep. Matsui.
"This bill marks a significant step in our efforts to increasing the safety of our nation for generations to come. The strong bipartisan support for WRDA and override of the President’s ill-advised veto illustrate the dedication of the Democratic Congress to investing in the strength of our great nation," said Matsui.
The WRDA of 2007 also will also allow the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA) to designate funds spent in the Natomas Basin to be utilized in calculating the cost of future projects. The Magpie Creek project will also be eligible for increased federal participation to help offset unforeseen expenditures.
Overall, WRDA authorizes approximately 400 new projects for the Army Corps of Engineers, including projects for flood control. In the wake of some of the problems highlighted by Hurricane Katrina, WRDA 2007 also includes important provisions to improve the Corps planning and mitigation process. The Corps will be directed to undertake an Independent Peer Review when cost thresholds are met, and ensure that projects are not undertaken at the expense of the environment.
"Today marks a significant victory for Sacramento, California, and America. I am committed to continuing to invest in our safety and security, and will work with my colleagues in Congress to better the lives of the American people," said Rep. Matsui.
