Jackson Announces Energy And Water Funds

Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr., a member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced today that the committee has approved the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill for FY 2004. The bill includes more than $50 million for flood abatement projects in the Second Congressional District of Illinois.

"The federal funds approved today will serve to spur the economic growth around our district’s waterways, continue improving Chicago's magnificant shoreline, cleanup local rivers, and reduce flooding throughout the South Side and south suburbs." Jackson said. "These projects are major investments by the federal government to improve and enhance the quality of life for Chicago Southland residents."

The bill is expected to be approved by the full House and Senate. It will then go to a House-Senate conference committee where agreements in funding level differences will be reached before going to the President for his signature.

The bill includes Congressman Jackson’s requests for:

*$21 million to continue work on the "Deep Tunnel" project, including the Calumet leg of the tunnel in Chicago’s South Side and south suburbs, and the McCook and Thornton reservoirs;

*$3.985 million for dredging, seawall and dock repairs, and an environmental cleanup of the Calumet River and Harbor near the USX South Works property;

*$1 million toward the construction of a 250-acre reservoir and channel clearing along Deer Creek which experiences frequent over-bank flooding. When flooding occurs, approximately 40 percent of the homes in Ford Heights are damaged, and;

*$400,000 for technical planning and assistance for sewer rehabilitation for communities in Cook County.

*$50,000 for Indian Ridge Marsh. This project will enhance and naturalize pond features and habitats; re-create and monitor prairie areas; re-introduce native plant species to woodland areas; and protect restored areas while encouraging public access.

Over the past four years, Jackson has helped secure more than $65 million for the Deep Tunnel Project, which is part of the comprehensive Chicago Underflow Plan designed to improve flood protection and improve water quality for the metropolitan area.

The bill also includes $24 million for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to continue Lake Michigan shoreline improvements in Chicago.