Reps. Blum, Loebsack Urge Funding for Projects Like Cedar Rapids Flood Protection

WASHINGTON, DC – December 07, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Representatives Rod Blum and Dave Loebsack authored a bipartisan letter to the House Appropriations Committee encouraging the Committee to include language in the upcoming Omnibus bill for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite funding for projects authorized through the Water Resources Reform & Development Act. This would permit important projects awaiting federal funding — like the Cedar Rapids flood mitigation efforts — to begin receiving their authorized amount of federal funds.

“Having witnessed the devastation of the flooding of the Cedar River in 2008, all of us in the First District understand the critical importance of government investment in proper flood mitigation infrastructure,” said Congressman Blum. “This story is not unique to Cedar Rapids — other small and mid-size communities across the country have had similar experiences. With mitigation funding for many of these communities already approved by Congress, it is imperative that minimal funding levels finally be met in order to ensure the viability of projects like the Cedar Rapids flood work. I’ll continue to work hard to get this project moving and I thank my colleague Rep. Loebsack for his support as well. ”

“Since the Flood of 2008 destroyed much of downtown Cedar Rapids, I have been fighting to ensure these flood protection measures are put in place. It is past time that resources are made available to prevent future devastation. The people and businesses of Cedar Rapids have waited long enough. These measures are necessary for them to continue to recover and thrive.” said Congressman Loebsack.

A copy of the letter can be found here: http://1.usa.gov/1YIgRoy

Rod Blum is the Republican Congressman in Iowa’s 1st District. He is a member of the Budget and Oversight & Government Reform Committees.