Benton Times

Congressman Steve Womack has supported the passage of S. 4367, known as the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation aims to improve various aspects of America's water infrastructure, including ports and harbors, inland waterways, flood protection, and storm protection. It also addresses programs and policy reforms related to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Womack emphasized the importance of adequate water infrastructure for economic growth, stating that it is essential for moving goods and protecting communities from natural disasters. He noted that this year's WRDA package makes significant investments in Arkansas, particularly highlighting the MKARNS deepening project as crucial for the Third District's economy.

The act includes specific provisions secured by Womack to benefit Arkansas directly. One such provision is the Beaver Lake Reallocation Study, which will enable the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assess reallocation needs for Beaver Lake's water supply. This study is critical as Beaver Water District supplies water to over 400,000 people and has seen a 7% annual increase in demand over the past four years.

Another key provision involves a change in cost-sharing arrangements for inland waterways construction projects like the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS) deepening project. The legislation waives the usual 65/35 cost share, ensuring these projects receive full federal funding to speed up their completion.

Having passed both chambers of Congress, S. 4367 now awaits President Biden's signature to become law.

"Adequate water infrastructure is critical to growing our economy, moving goods Americans rely on, and protecting communities from natural disasters," said Congressman Womack regarding the legislation's impact on Arkansas.