House Passes WRDA Bill Authorizing Riverside County Water Infrastructure Projects

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) voted along with a bipartisan majority (399 - 18) of the House of Representatives to pass the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), S. 4367. The final bipartisan, bicameral legislation authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Civil Works Program for projects to improve the nation’s ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, and other aspects of our water resources infrastructure. The bill is expected to be approved by the Senate soon and head to the White House for the President’s signature. 

The bill authorizes $100 million for the South Perris Desalination Program. The authorization was requested by Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) to construct Stage II of this desalination program which is expected to add up to 5.4 million gallons of potable water per day for customers.

“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,” said Rep. Calvert. “I’m proud to work along with my Inland Empire colleagues to secure this important infrastructure win for our region.”

The bill also authorizes $4 million for the La Quinta Drainage Improvements Project. The authorization was requested by the city of La Quinta to construct drainage improvements in the areas of Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Bermudas.

“The La Quinta Drainage Improvements project will help enhance local stormwater drainage along key corridors in the city,” said Rep. Calvert. “Improving our water infrastructure in the Coachella Valley is critically important to keeping roads safe and accessible during periods of heavy rain.”

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