NW Riverside News

Today, the House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), S. 4367, with a vote of 399 to 18. The legislation authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program for various projects aimed at enhancing ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, and other water resources infrastructure. The bill is anticipated to receive Senate approval shortly before proceeding to the White House for the President's signature.

Among its provisions, the WRDA allocates $100 million for the South Perris Desalination Program. This funding was requested by Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) to facilitate Stage II construction of the desalination program, which is projected to provide up to 5.4 million gallons of potable water daily for local customers.

Congressman Ken Calvert commented on this development: “Bringing additional federal resources to expand the EMWD South Perris Water Supply Desalination project will help grow our local water supply and reduce dependence on imported water.” He expressed pride in collaborating with his colleagues from Inland Empire to secure this infrastructure benefit for the region.

Additionally, the bill authorizes $4 million for improvements in La Quinta's drainage system. The city requested this authorization to enhance drainage in areas around Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Bermudas.

Rep. Calvert highlighted the significance of this project: “The La Quinta Drainage Improvements project will help enhance local stormwater drainage along key corridors in the city,” emphasizing its importance in maintaining safe and accessible roads during heavy rainfall periods.