Cord Byrd: “I introduce, on behalf of Senator Rockefeller and myself, a bill to grant the city of New Martinsville, WV, a 4-year…”

“I introduce, on behalf of Senator Rockefeller and myself, a bill to grant the city of New Martinsville, WV, a 4-year extension to its Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [FERC] licenses to begin construction of two hydroelectric power projects at New Cumberland and Willow Island on the Ohio River. These projects are to be financed by the city of New Martinsville through the sale of municipal bonds. This extension is necessary because the city has already invested over $4 million in these projects. The hydroelectric projects take advantage of existing Army Corps navigation dams on the Ohio River in order to generate power, and also will include the development of recreational facilities. Without any contribution from the Federal Government, the city of New Martinsville will finance projects that will include fishing piers, underwater reefs, walkways, picnic facilities, and parking areas. The city anticipates that the two projects would employ 500 workers during the peak of construction, with a $1.5 million monthly payroll. The total construction payroll for both projects is expected to be $25 million. The New Martinsville hydropower projects will also pay substantial taxes and other payments to various governmental entities during construction and operation.”