WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed a critical water infrastructure improvement bill that includes legislation introduced and championed by Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) to support resiliency projects, protect our environment, bolster our beaches and support the growing Tampa Bay economy. The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is comprehensive legislation passed by Congress every two years to authorize Federal investments critical to our nation’s economy, environment and public safety and health.

"Investments in our nation's water infrastructure and ecosystems are vital to supporting our communities and small businesses alike," said Rep. Castor. "By mitigating flood risks at MacDill, restoring ecosystems and investing in resilience, this legislation promotes environmental sustainability and economic strength. I am committed to advancing these bipartisan solutions to protect our waterways and the people who depend on them."

“The package also includes a significant investment for Port Tampa Bay aimed at expanding and improving navigable waterways, bolstering Tampa Bay’s vibrant marine economy – one of only four navigation projects authorized in the country.  Our growing region relies on the goods and service that a healthy shipping channel provides.”

The Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act includes several provisions championed by Castor, including:

• Port Tampa Bay Deep Draft Navigation - $420 million: Project to improve navigable waterways in Tampa Bay, one of only four projects in the country.
• MacDill Airforce Base Climate Resilience: Project for hurricane and storm damage reduction and ecosystem restoration in the vicinity of MacDill AFB.
• Beach Renourishment: Allows for beach renourishment efforts in Pinellas County by addressing ongoing easement issues with the Army Corps of Engineers.
• St. Pete Harborage Marina: Language included to allow for more flexibility for channel access within Bayboro Harbor.