SE Texas Times

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, a bipartisan effort aimed at enhancing the nation's water infrastructure. This legislation includes several key projects advocated by U.S. Representative Randy Weber to support ports, improve waterways, and stimulate economic growth in Texas' 14th District.

Among the projects included in WRDA 2024 for Southeast Texas is the Galveston Harbor Channel Extension. This project authorizes modifications to deepen and extend the Federal channel and Turning Basin 2, allowing fully loaded vessels to safely navigate to Texas International Terminals. The expanded Turning Basin will also accommodate new Oasis Class cruise ships at the Royal Caribbean terminal, expected to create 800 jobs and generate $1.4 billion in local economic activity annually.

Additionally, authorization was secured for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to expedite a feasibility study for widening the Sabine-Neches Waterway. This navigation improvement project aims to address constraints affecting maritime traffic safety and efficiency in one of the nation's busiest waterways.

A feasibility study was also authorized for evaluating improvements to ship channels and barge lanes in the Galveston Bay area, including entrance points at Houston, Galveston Harbor, and Texas City ship channels. These enhancements are crucial for maintaining the region's role as a cornerstone of America's energy security, supply chain, and economic development.

Moreover, USACE is authorized to expedite a feasibility study for developing a new deep-water federal navigation channel between the Houston Ship Channel and Cedar Port terminal facilities. This initiative seeks to reduce vessel congestion and increase operational capacity to support growing container volumes along the Gulf Coast.

"Southeast Texas is home to seven ports—more than any other district in the nation—and vital waterways that power both our local and national economies," said Rep. Weber. "Our region plays a critical role on the global stage, and these investments are key to sustaining its leadership in energy, commerce, and job creation while improving the safety and efficiency of our waterways. I was proud to advocate for these projects in WRDA and will continue working to ensure they become a reality."