Rep. Loebsack’s Efforts to Expedite Flood Protections in Cedar Rapids Pass House

WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 -- Rep. David Loebsack, D-Iowa (2nd CD), issued the following statement after the House passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (S. 216), which included provisions to expedite the construction of flood protection measures in Cedar Rapids, among other water infrastructure projects. The Cedar Rapids flood control measures were previously authorized, but have not yet been built. Additionally, this legislation authorizes Corps of Engineers funding for improvements to ports, waterways and projects tied to flood protection, drinking water, dams and levees, and environmental restoration.

"I am pleased that the bill includes provisions to expedite the much needed flood protection measures to keep homes, businesses and communities safe in Cedar Rapids. The Floods of 2008 devastated much of downtown Cedar Rapids, which still does not have adequate protection to keep them safe from future flooding.

"The legislation also includes projects that will create jobs and have a direct impact on our economy. Iowa farmers, manufacturers, businesses and local economies rely on the Mississippi River infrastructure. It is clear that the locks and dams along the Mississippi River are deteriorating and significantly harming the economic development in the region.

This bill is very important to Iowa, not just for the locks and dams, but also for much of our flood protection and Army Corps projects that are needed to keep our communities safe."

Specific provisions contained in this legislation, include:

Cedar Rapids Flood Control

An amendment authored by Congressman Loebsack and Congressman Blum was included that directs the Corps of Engineers to expedite the completion of the previously authorized flood damage reduction, and flood risk management project on the Cedar River.

Upper Mississippi Study

The bill includes a provision that instructs the Corps to conduct a study of areas located within the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois River basins to identify the risks and vulnerability of those areas to increased flood damages.

Lead Crisis in Flint

This bill authorizes a $100 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, a $20 million loan from the Water Infrastructure Financing Innovation Act fund and $50 million for related health programs.

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