Congress to authorize $344 million for South Platte River project

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) announced today that Congress is now on track to approve more than $344 million for Denver's South Platte River and Tributaries project as part of this year's water bill.

The massive project – which will restore miles of stream bank along the South Platte River through the heart of Denver, create more green space for residents to enjoy and protect hundreds of Denver homes and businesses from the threat of future flooding – is a key part of a broader plan put forth by city of Denver and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to permanently protect three of Denver's rivers.

DeGette, in close collaboration with the city and county of Denver and the Army Corp of Engineers, worked to get funding for the project authorized as part of the 2020 Water Resources Development Act, which congressional leaders finalized late yesterday.

"Denver's vast open parks and unrivaled public lands are a large part of why our city is so special," DeGette said. "This legislation will not only protect our community from future flooding, it will also provide our residents with miles of additional green space to enjoy the beautiful outdoors."

The legislation is expected to be approved by both chambers before the end of the year.

The full text of this year's WRDA bill is available here.

(see page 322 for South Platte River project).