Financial Push for Water Projects on the Central Coast

Congressman Salud Carbajal has announced the passage of new federal funding for water projects on the Central Coast included in the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water Appropriations Act (H.R. 5895).

The bill – signed into law by the President on Friday – includes investments in the Cachuma Water Project, and will help fund necessary dredging in the Morro Bay Harbor and the Santa Barbara Harbor.

“These resources will provide necessary funding to support the annual dredging that keeps our harbors open for business, fueling job growth on the Central Coast and preserving their economic vitality. I’m grateful these critical resources for Central Coast water projects passed with an overwhelming bipartisan majority,” said Carbajal.

Morro Bay Harbor

H.R. 5895 includes $2.4 million in funding for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to dredge the Morro Bay Harbor entrance next year.

“The City of Morro Bay is grateful to receive $2.4 million in Federal funding from the passage of an appropriations bill supported by Congressman Salud Carbajal that will be used for critically important harbor entrance dredging next year,” said Morro Bay Mayor, Jamie L. Irons.

“This dredging will help ensure a safe harbor entrance for our recreational boaters and commercial fisher men and women, and allows Morro Bay to be a safe refuge during storms. The Bay is home to our own Harbor Patrol officers and United States Coast Guard, who provide boater assistance, rescue services and Homeland Security along our coast.”

Santa Barbara Harbor

H.R. 5895 also provides $3.36 million in funding for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support the Santa Barbara Harbor’s annual dredging.

“Santa Barbara is fortunate to receive a congressional appropriation of $3.3 million to continue with much needed harbor dredging. The economic vitality of the harbor is dependent on annual dredging and this funding ensures our working harbor will remain productive and an excellent resource for residents and visitors alike,” stated Scott Riedman, Santa Barbara Habor Waterfront Director.

Cachuma Water Project

H.R. 5895 includes $1.57 million for the Bureau of Reclamation to support the Cachuma Water Project in Santa Maria. The Cachuma project captures seasonal floodwater that would otherwise drain into the ocean.

“The passage of Reclamation’s budget is great news to continue the extraordinary work that Reclamation accomplishes on behalf of the American People. The Cachuma Project is a significant portion of the water supply for Santa Barbara County including the Santa Barbara municipal area and Reclamation welcomes the funding that allows us to continue operating and maintaining the Project,” stated Duane D. Stroup, Deputy Area Manager.