On the recordJuly 20, 2010
And I rise to support H.R. 5545. This noncontroversial bill will allow development of the Southwest Waterfront in the District of Columbia. This bill will benefit not only residents here, but also regional residents and U.S. and international visitors by permitting the District to extend docks and increase maritime activity just a short eyeshot from the U.S. Capitol building. In order for the District to make these improvements, the Federal Government must redesignate part of the water designated by the Federal Government as the Washington Channel so that more and larger docks can be built by the District to accommodate increased boating and waterside activity. The original width of the Washington Channel was established in the early 1800s to accommodate industrial and maritime commerce at the Southwest Waterfront prior to the construction of East Potomac Park. Today, however, the Southwest Waterfront is no longer a major port, and does not accommodate large vessels. In fact, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have agreed that this redesignation will not affect navigation interests or adversely affect navigation safety. I ask Members to support this noncontroversial change that will reinvigorate the Southwest Waterfront for the city, region, and visitors alike to enjoy.
