Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) has urged the Army Corps to take action to complete the Quillayute Harbor dredging project in a timely manner.
In a letter to Jo-Ellen Darcy, Assistant Secretary of the Army Civil Works, Kilmer called for the Corps to recover taxpayer dollars and hold the contractor accountable for failing to complete work on the Quillayute River Navigation Project.
Kilmer noted that the failure to complete this project would have an impact on the local economy. The Harbor supports a $4 million a year fishing industry and is used by the community of La Push and Quileute tribal members. A Coast Guard Station important to public safety also utilizes the Harbor.
“ It is now clear that, due to poor performance, the federal contractor will be unable to complete the work before the end of the designated work window, ” said Kilmer in the letter sent last week. “I strongly urge you to take action to ensure that taxpayer dollars are recovered to the greatest extent possible and that the federal contractor is held accountable for the failure to complete this critical project in a timely fashion .”
Kilmer has consistently fought to ensure the Quillayute Harbor receives needed dredging. In 2014, Kilmer sent a letter urging the Corps to prioritize funding for the Quillayute River Navigation Project and made an announcement that they were moving forward with the harbor dredging.