For Release: November 1, 2001
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

HOUSE APPROVES METRO EAST WATER PROJECTS

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the full House of Representatives has approved funding for projects in the 12th Congressional District as part of the Conference Report on Energy and Water Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2002. This is the final version of this legislation which is expected to be signed into law after approval by the Senate.

"All of these projects will provide economic and safety benefits to the Metro East," said Costello. "I am pleased that we have completed consideration of this important legislation."

The projects include:

* $1 million for new sewer and storm water drain construction in St. Clair and Madison Counties.
* $688,000 to restore eco-systems around East St. Louis.
* $100,000 for a required study of deteriorating gravity drains within the Prairie du Pont levee district.
* $70,000 for a required study of problems with the pumping stations and drainage districts in Monroe County.
* $45,000 to restore the aquatic ecosystem of Chouteau Island, Madison County.
* $491,000 for operation and maintenance of the Kaskaskia Navigation System.
* $3.617 million for work at the Chain of Rocks Canal, Madison County.
* $1 million for work at Canteen Creek, Madison and St. Clair Counties.
* $500,000 for the Mel Price Lock and Dam.
* $341,000 for work at the Wood River Levee, Madison County.

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