Senators Chris Dodd (D-CT) and Joe Lieberman (ID-CT) secured $ 45 million in authorized spending for Connecticut water resource projects in a bill that passed the Senate today.  The bill, the Water Resources Development Act of 2007, gives the Army Corps of Engineers authority to undertake essential water resource studies and to construct and modify water resource projects.

By a vote of 91-4, the Senate passed this important piece of legislation, which will help Connecticut communities ensure the safety and cleanliness of their water supplies, restore marine habitats, and improve navigation in working harbors.

“Connecticut’s economic vitality—and that of every state—is based on a sound infrastructure,” said Dodd.  “I am pleased that the Senate passed WRDA, enabling economic development and investment in clean water for Connecticut towns and shellfish habitat restoration in Long Island Sound.”

“I commend the passage of this essential and long overdue legislation” Lieberman said.  “This is an important step to guarantee that safe drinking water is available to everyone in Connecticut.  I have been a strong advocate for the restoration of Long Island Sound, and I am concerned that Connecticut’s oyster population has decreased rapidly in recent years.  Funding for these projects will enable the careful maintenance and preservation of the environment in our state.”

The following Connecticut projects were authorized with the passage of the Water Resources Development Act:

• $25,000,000 for the restoration of oyster and other shellfish habitat in Long Island Sound.
   
• $6,280,000 for wastewater treatment in Plainville.

• $9,420,000 for water supply infrastructure in Southington.

• $3,000,000 for the Keeler Brook Storm Water Improvement Project in Norwalk.

• $1,000,000 for infiltration and inflow correction in Enfield.

• $300,000 for storm water system improvements in New Haven.

• The designation of the Charles Hervey Townshend Breakwater to honor Charles Hervey Townshend in New Haven Harbor.

• Modification of a Norwalk Harbor navigation project.