On the recordJuly 27, 2015
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to underscore a serious problem in Pasco County, Florida, this week that is devastating homeowners--flooding--after days of continuous rain. After Tropical Storm Debby in 2012, the Army Corps of Engineers worked with county officials to implement some measures to mitigate flooding, but more needs to be done. For instance, Pasco County officials have been working for 19 years to extend Ridge Road. One of the main justifications for the Ridge Road extension is a matter of safety. An extension is a much-needed evacuation route in the case of natural disasters, like flooding or hurricanes. As of today, an evacuation issued for Elfers, Florida, in my district, is ongoing. The Ridge Road extension needs to be approved. Nineteen years is far too long. The Army Corps must stop dragging its feet. The serious flood this week demonstrates the need for action. I hope that the Corps gets the message. ____________________
