Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani has announced the passage of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which includes several provisions he introduced. The bill, having already passed the Senate, was approved by the House of Representatives with a vote of 399-18 and is now awaiting the President's signature.

The WRDA is a biennial legislative package that authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program to execute various infrastructure projects related to ports, harbors, inland waterways navigation, storm and flood mitigation, ecosystem conservation, and other water infrastructure initiatives. This year's package incorporates Ciscomani's proposals for water infrastructure projects in Tucson, Sahuarita, and Pinal County.

Ciscomani stated: "Southern Arizona leads the way in water conservation, and as your Representative, I will continue to champion commonsense solutions that promote a more secure water future for our district, state, and nation." He highlighted his provisions aimed at strengthening infrastructure needs in his district and supporting flood mitigation efforts in Pinal County and Sahuarita.

Among Ciscomani's secured measures are a $50 million increase in funding authorization for the Western Rural Water Program and authorization for Tucson's Southlands Recycled Water Loop project. Additionally, there is expedited construction approval for flood control projects at Pinal County's Lower Santa Cruz River and drainage improvements for Sahuarita.

City of Tucson Mayor Regina Romero commented on Ciscomani’s support: "Representative Ciscomani’s support for the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 highlights the importance of partnerships in securing Tucson’s water future."

Alex Funk from the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership also praised Ciscomani’s efforts: “We applaud Rep. Ciscomani’s work to enhance the Corps Western Rural Water authority.”

Sahuarita Mayor Tom Murphy expressed gratitude: “We commend Congressman Ciscomani’s leadership to secure $4.8 million for Sahuarita’s water and wastewater needs in WRDA 2024.”

Stephen Miller from Pinal County Board emphasized: “We are pleased that the House of Representatives has approved language to expedite completion of flood control projects in the Lower Santa Cruz River.”