Reed, Burcham tour waterway projects

Rep. Tom Reed (R-N.Y.) met with Army Corps of Engineers Brig. Gen. Margaret Burcham on Tuesday to discuss waterway projects in New York and opportunities for the Water Resources Reform and Development Act to speed up projects.

Reed, Burcham and a group of state and local officials discussed projects that include dredging, environmental restoration efforts and combating invasive species.

“…It certainly makes a difference when we can show key decision makers with their own eyes what we’re trying to accomplish with the work we’ve done on paper,” Reed said. “Whether it’s supporting jobs, trade, recreation and tourism or manufacturing, all of our waterways provide significant economic activity for the region and it’s part of our job to make sure we protect those vital waterways.”

Burcham said she heard concerns about ecosystems and the economic viability of lakes and harbors in the region.

“We learned a great deal about the details of their challenges so we can partner to seek solutions,” Burcham said. “I was especially impressed with the collaboration and commitment among the many local and state leaders and community stakeholders.”

Reed invited Burcham to New York to tour projects and meet people who will be impacted by them earlier this year.

“The local input is extremely helpful in first identifying priority projects and then being a voice to advocate for their completion,” Reed said.