Rep. Mike Levin Highlights Key CA-49 Priorities in Water Resources Development Act
Washington, D.C. – Today, the House passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020 with key priorities for the 49th District. The bill authorizes the development of locally-led projects in partnership with the US Army Corps of Engineers, and includes authorizations for the San Luis Rey River Flood Protection Project in Oceanside and the Del Mar bluffs shoreline project. It also includes language directing the Army Corps to expedite the long-delayed Oceanside Special Shoreline Study. The bill is similar to legislation the House passed earlier this year, but includes changes as a result of bipartisan, bicameral negotiations and is expected to become law this month.
“The Water Resources Development Act is a critical piece of legislation for everyone in the 49th District who cherishes the lagoons, estuaries, and coastline that make our region such a special place,” said Rep. Levin. “My top priority for this bill was the authorization of the Del Mar bluffs shoreline project, the Oceanside Special Shoreline Study, and the San Luis Rey River Flood Protection Project, and I am proud that we’re making long overdue progress on those important projects. These projects help save lives, property, and important ecosystems, and I’ll continue to work with the Army Corps and local governments to see them completed.”
Specifically, the Water Resources Development Act authorizes the Post Authorization Change Report (PACR), completed in July 2020, for the San Luis Rey River Flood Protection Project in Oceanside. This long-stalled project needs additional federal funding before it can be completed and turned over to the City of Oceanside. By including the PACR in WRDA, Congress will approve an increase to the authorized project cost.
The bill also authorizes a feasibility study for the Del Mar bluffs shoreline project, which is intended to address the erosion threatening the only rail line linking San Diego and Los Angeles. The Army has designated the rail corridor a part of the Strategic Rail Corridor Network and the Navy has said that it is essential for the five major military installations in the greater San Diego area.
Finally, the bill includes a provision that will expedite completion of a feasibility study for the Oceanside Special Shoreline Study. Rep. Levin worked to ensure that the Oceanside Special Shoreline Study was added to the bill when it was considered in the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
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