Memphis Standard

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee has announced the inclusion of significant projects for her state in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act. The bill, which passed the Senate this week, is set to be signed into law soon.

"Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene across East Tennessee, rebuilding our communities and reassessing flood risk is extremely important across the entire state," said Senator Blackburn. "This year’s Water Resources Development Act will allow the dredging and maintenance of Pidgeon Harbor in Memphis, enabling the continued growth of the industrial area and supporting the city as the Logistics Hub of America. It will also improve our state’s flood risk management to help us better respond to future natural disasters and strengthen wastewater infrastructure to support the development of Blue Oval City."

The act authorizes federal maintenance and dredging of Pidgeon Harbor's navigation channel in Memphis. It also includes feasibility studies for flood risk management in Nashville and water supply support evaluation for Nolichucky River capabilities in Greene County.

Additionally, it calls for expedited completion of several projects including the Kentucky Lock and Dam navigation project, allocating $35 million for wastewater infrastructure in Tipton County, and $50 million for water and wastewater infrastructure across Tipton, Haywood, and Fayette Counties.

There is a mandate for coordination with stakeholders to address dredging needs on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in Mississippi and Alabama. The act also prioritizes quick completion of projects at Wilson Dam.