WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Representative John L. Mica (R-7th District) announced that the long delayed FY 2009 federal appropriations bill, that has been pending since last October, was signed into law today and includes provisions that will aid Volusia County’s efforts to stabilize Ponce Inlet and improve access to water resources.  This is a separate measure than the stimulus that was recently passed.

The Army Corps of Engineers will receive $1,148,000 toward funding for construction of a 1,000-foot south jetty extension that will run parallel to the north jetty. 

“This federal assistance is critical to ensuring the inlet’s continued stability,” Mica stated.  “The Army Corps work will preserve the effort and taxpayer investment we have put into permanently solving the problems of erosion and unnavigable waters at Ponce Inlet,” Rep. Mica stated.

Congressman Mica previously helped secure nearly $19 million in federal assistance for Ponce Inlet and its north jetty, and is currently working with the Corps to complete similar work on the south jetty.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2009 will perform an updated survey and make the necessary changes to their plans in an effort to stabilize the inlet.  The parallel jetties will help stop sand from drifting into the inlet and clogging navigation channels.

Additionally, the Saint Johns Water Management District in Volusia has been awarded $500,000 in federal funds to improve water services to the residents of Volusia County. 

“This funding is needed in order to ensure the availability of an affordable supply of water for use by the residents of Volusia County,” said Rep. Mica.  The declining availability of groundwater for public use raises the possibility of competition in the near future between counties for access to water supplies.  Rep. Mica added, “These funds will allow the Saint Johns Water Management District to develop, integrate and use available alternative water sources for the people of Volusia County by augmenting traditional groundwater supplies from the Floridan and surficial aquifer systems.”

This project will reduce the significant threat to water resources and related natural systems that would result if withdrawals of groundwater were allowed to occur beyond their sustainable limits.  In addition, these funds will contribute to local economies throughout Volusia County by providing a multi-year, multi-million dollar construction project.

“Volusia County citizens pay a significant amount of federal taxes to Washington, and it’s only fair that some of these funds be returned to benefit our community,” said Rep. Mica.