Vicente Gonzalez: “I want to briefly recognize the work the subcommittee has done in providing $2.3 million for the San Antonio Channel…”

“I want to briefly recognize the work the subcommittee has done in providing $2.3 million for the San Antonio Channel Improvements Project. This money will provide the first installment of a multiyear construction effort to expand the economic development of the San Antonio River while addressing potential flood control problems. As many know, the San Antonio Riverwalk which is the central segment of the San Antonio River park system is one of the premier tourist sites in our country. Conceived in the 1930's, the Riverwalk has been an example of everything the Federal government and the Army Corps of Engineers can do right with its water construction efforts. The San Antonio Channel Improvements Project has fully met the federal technical requirements for project development and fully fits with the Corps' strategic plan for the Nation. This project will significantly enhance flood protection in the San Antonio metropolitan effort while at the same time restore the river ecosystem and connect the San Antonio River park system with the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The significant economic development impact of this project will primarily be felt by the most disadvantaged sections of the San Antonio community. The City of San Antonio and Bexar County have also committed more than $46 million in local funding to match the Army Corps of Engineers investment in this project. Mr.…”