Congress Directs Funding to Napa Flood Project

Today, the House passed the “Energy and Water” appropriations bill, including $7.5 million for the Napa River Flood Project. Rep. Mike Thompson (D-Napa Valley), who championed this project, was pleased it was included in the bill. However, Thompson is committed to securing more money for the project before the appropriations bill is sent to the president.

“To reign in the reckless federal spending of the past several years, the new Majority in Congress has pledged to cut all earmark funding in half,” said Thompson. “So it's great news that the House included my request for the Napa Flood Project in the bill. However, it needs as much funding as possible, so I will work to increase the dollar amount before the bill is sent to the White House.”

The Senate version of the Energy and Water appropriations bill includes $11 million for the Napa Flood Project. The two bills must be identical before they can be signed into law.

“The safety of our businesses and homes depends on continued funding for the Napa Flood Project,” said Thompson. “I've made sure that the appropriators in Congress know this is a top priority, and I'll continue to fight for additional funding.”

In December 2005 and January 2006, flooding along the Napa River caused more than $115 million worth of damage to Napa and the surrounding communities. Fortunately, the areas where the existing Napa River Flood project was completed were protected. Otherwise, the damage would have undoubtedly been more severe.

This project is widely viewed as the premier flood protection and environmental restoration project in the country and is used by the Army Corps of Engineers as a model for other projects nationwide.

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CONTACT: Anne Warden at (202) 225-3311, (703) 338-4480 or anne.warden@mail.house.gov.