Corpus Christi, TX — An important amendment addressing the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project was included in legislation passing the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday, September 28, 2016. The Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (H.R. 5303) is a comprehensive bipartisan legislation addressing the needs of America’s ports, harbors, locks, dams, flood protection, and other water resources infrastructure.
Congressman Blake Farenthold (R-TX) authored an amendment designating that multiphase projects previously fully authorized and underway would not require a “new start” or “new investment” decision to continue work on separable elements.
“I’m glad to see my amendment included in the Water Resources Development Act,” Congressman Farenthold said. “Many critical projects, such as the Port of Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project, have been halted despite previous authorization. Requiring that separable elements receive a new start authorization is counterproductive and my amendment will remove another piece of government red tape.”
The widening and deepening of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel and construction of barge shelves are needed to guarantee continued economic growth for South Texas and Port Corpus Christi and for ensuring the safety of port operations. The Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project is critical to Texas’ economy, and the Nation in seeking to expand international trade and new export opportunities.
“For years, the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project has been treated as a ‘new start’ during budget consideration despite receiving federal funding in past years. We thank Congressman Farenthold for his support and leadership in addressing this issue. This directive will allow our project to move forward and compete for funding for the remaining elements,” said Charles W. Zahn Jr., Port Corpus Christi Commission Chairman.
The Senate approved its version of the bill (S.2848) on September 15, 2016. The final bill will be negotiated by a House-Senate conference Committee.
About Port Corpus Christi
As the primary economic engine of the Coastal Bend, Port Corpus Christi is the 5th largest port in the United States in total tonnage. Our mission; to “Leverage Commerce to Drive Prosperity.” Our vision; “To be the energy port of the America’s.” Strategically located on the western Gulf of Mexico, with a straight, 45’ deep channel, Port Corpus Christi provides quick access to the Gulf and the entire United States inland waterway system. The Port delivers outstanding access to overland transportation with on-site direct connections to three Class-1 railroads and uncongested interstate and state highways. Port Corpus Christi is protected by a state-of-the-art security department and an award-winning Environmental Management System. With outstanding management and operations staff, Port Corpus Christi is clearly “Moving America’s Energy.” http://www.portcorpuschristi.com/
Port Corpus Christi is a member of START (South Texas Alliance for Regional Trade), a collaborative effort that highlights business opportunities in South Texas in the manufacturing, energy, aerospace, international trade, military, and other sectors and the related strategic support provided by Port San Antonio, Port Corpus Christi, and Port Laredo. http://www.southtexastrade.com/
