House Authorizes Water Projects in Sierra Madre, Arcadia and Upland

April 19, 2007

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Dreier (R-CA), House Rules Committee Ranking Republican, voted today to approve legislation authorizing federal support for innovative water projects in the cities of Sierra Madre, Arcadia and Upland. The projects were included in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007, H.R. 1495, which was approved with strong bipartisan support, 394 - 25.

“Environmental protection and restoration go hand in hand with a quality water supply,” Dreier said. “We’re always looking for ways to improve the management of groundwater, especially in California. This bill provides the entire country with the projects necessary to manage our water supply, as well as investigate how we can most effectively ensure its safety. I’m particularly pleased that water agencies serving the Foothills will receive the federal authorization needed to build on the terrific work they’ve already done.”

The bill authorizes $20 million for the cities of Sierra Madre and Arcadia’s Water Environmental Infrastructure Program. This program will improve the water infrastructure that both cities rely upon, which is at risk due to deterioration from age and the potential impact from a major seismic event in the region. The bill also authorizes $13 million for the city of Upland for storm drainage and flood control retention projects. Additionally, the bill contains a $5 million authorization for the Raymond Basin Management Board’s Southern California Foothill Communities Water Supply Reliability Program. This authorization will help facilitate the planning and construction of groundwater quality and supply projects throughout the Foothills region.

Dreier expressed his appreciation for the House’s commitment to helping regions like Southern California better manage our ability to deal with groundwater supplies, storm water and water infrastructure. “With more and more people calling Southern California home, we need to be smart about how we manage our water supply. Local leaders are making huge progress in their efforts, and I believe this federal support will only enhance the benefits for all of our communities.”