February 16, 2024

Senator Mark Kelly announced plans to introduce legislation the next time the Senate is in session, to authorize more involvement from the Army Corps of Engineers in projects that benefit rural communities, at his water infrastructure hearing in Flagstaff last Thursday.

As the Chairman of the Senate’s Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, Senator Kelly said he wants the next water infrastructure bill to allow the Army Corps to to do more to help communities facing the impacts of drought and destructive flooding: “That’s why over the past few months I’ve been working on legislation—called the Drought Resilient Infrastructure Act—that gives new authorities to the Army Corps so that they can take on more projects that help Arizona and the west respond and adapt to drought conditions.”

The hearing addressed infrastructure needs in Northern Arizona communities; and highlighted the impact projects like the ongoing Rio de Flag Control Project make in reducing flood insurance rates and allowing construction in areas currently deemed to be in the floodplain.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com