Key Provisions in Recently Passed 2024 Water Resource Development Act Benefit Cape Cod Water Infrastructure

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which passed through the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on May 22, includes several initiatives targeting water infrastructure challenges on Cape Cod, as highlighted by Senator Edward J. Markey.

Key provisions for these areas include:

• Barnstable County: The legislation authorizes two Government Accountability Office investigations to improve the permitting process nationally, influenced by recommendations from the Barnstable County Dredging Advisory Committee. It also directs the Army Corps to enhance the online “Permit Finder” tool, aiding local officials in tracking permit statuses.
• Cape Cod Drawbridge: The bill contains language that encourages better coordination between the Army Corps and Massachusetts state authorities to support the Cape Cod drawbridge.
• Sandwich: There is an increase in the project cap for a coastal restoration project from $12.5 million to $15 million to continue addressing severe erosion caused by the federal Cape Cod Canal jetties.

These measures are part of a broader effort by Senators Markey and Elizabeth Warren to secure water infrastructure improvements across Massachusetts, addressing the worsening impacts of climate change and supporting coastal resilience.

To learn more, read the full press release from Senator Markey’s Office entitled ‘Senator Markey Secures Wins for Massachusetts Bill Passes Senate Committee’ >>>

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