From the Office of Senator Kerry

Friday, July 13, 2001

Washington, DC -- U.S. Senators John F. Kerry and Edward M. Kennedy announced today that the Transportation Subcommittee of the Senate Appropriations Committee has approved $600,000 to continue engineering, design and construction to prevent flooding of Boston's Fenway Community, and to restore the proper and intended flow of Massachusetts' Muddy River. The funds will be included in the Senate Interior Appropriations Bill for the fiscal year starting October 1.

Senator Kerry said, "This funding, critical to area residents and businesses, will help control and prevent flooding from the Muddy River. I am glad that we were able to secure funds to continue this very worthwhile endeavor."

Senator Kennedy said, "I'm delighted that this important project continues to move forward. The restoration of Muddy River is a significant part of Boston's environmental revitalization. We need to do all we can to eliminate the flood hazard, restore the river's vitality, and improve the quality of life for families and neighborhoods in the area."

The City of Boston, the Town of Brookline and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have worked closely to determine the most environmentally sound, cost-effective and universally supported plan to help prevent future flooding cased by the Muddy River. In recent years, flooding of the river has produced extensive damage and economic loss to this densely populated and economically vital section of Boston and the neighboring Town of Brookline. The communities have worked closely with the local and state governments to develop the Boston Parks and Recreation Department Master Plan - an effective economically and environmentally sensitive plan.