Dive Brief:
- The House of Representatives and Senate reached agreement on a draft of what is now called the WIIN, or Water Infrastructure Improvement for the Nation Act, formerly known as the WRDA, or Water Resources Development Act, Politico reported Tuesday.
- This latest version of the bill increases the allowable harbor dredging depth from 45 to 50 feet on government-eligible projects, which become eligible for a 75% federal contribution. Further, ports will also gain access to money previously pinched from the Harbor Maintenance Tax.
- Lastly, the Army Corps of Engineers will be busy under WIIN, with the authorization of 30 new projects, including Everglades restoration and work on ports and levees.
Dive Insight:
Countless water-related projects lay ahead once WIIN passes, some of which have only grown in importance since the bill first entered the renegotiation process.
Flood risks, hurricane damage, and navigation issues are in need of funding all across the country, from California to Maine, Texas to Pennsylvania. Ensuring funding in advance of weather-related emergencies will enable federal agencies to prepare effective rescue efforts before they happen.
The latest bill has yet to pass, however. Politico reports various water-related interests may still change some of the funding allocations presented, but at least for now, ports are winning out.
