Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) announced that the United States Army Corps of Engineers will fund several important projects in the Central Valley this year.
$800,000 was awarded for the San Francisco Bay to Stockton project. Additionally, $4,491,720 was awarded for operations and maintenance dredging at the Port of Stockton.
“ The San Francisco Bay to Stockton project is a huge priority for the Port of Stockton, and I was proud to advocate for it to be properly funded. Construction and infrastructure jobs are vital to our regional economic health just as our infrastructure is vital to commerce, and this project will help put our community back to work ,” said Rep. McNerney.
Congressman McNerney has been fighting to restore funding for the project, which last received federal funding in 2009. The project will improve the shipping channels between the Bay and Stockton, allowing more traffic to flow to the Port of Stockton. The funding will increase the number of vessels that can reach the Port of Stockton, relieving some of the strain on California’s roads. The money for the maintenance dredging helps keep the channels clear and is significantly more money than was received last year.
The Lower San Joaquin River Study will receive $300,000 to continue the ongoing study. The Lower San Joaquin River Study is a multi-year study that examines the best ways for San Joaquin County to determine what improvements are necessary to reach and exceed a 200-year level of flood protection for residents and businesses.
Finally, the Contra Costa Canal will receive $250,000 in funding. The Contra Costa Canal delivers clean water to much of Contra Costa County.
“ I remain committed to bolstering our local economy and creating good-paying jobs in our region. From investing in our infrastructure and flood control, to combating outsourcing and the housing crisis, getting our economy back on track is my highest priority, ” said Rep. McNerney.
“ The Port of Stockton would like to thank Congressman McNerney for his work to secure funding for these important priorities. The resources Congressman McNerney is helping bring back to our community will allow the Port to expand its operations and create new jobs in Stockton ,” said Richard Aschieris, Port Director of the Port of Stockton .
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Dredging Today Staff, February 13, 2012; Image: mcnerney