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Washington, D.C. – Congressman Pete Visclosky today announced that the House Appropriations Committee approved $1.8 million for two environmental infrastructure projects in Northwest Indiana. The funding, which will support projects to improve the quality of life for region residents, is included in the Fiscal Year 2010 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.
“This funding for improvements to Northwest Indiana’s environmental infrastructure will improve the quality of life for all the region’s residents,” said Visclosky. “By protecting and preserving our local environment we can make the area a nicer place to live, thereby attracting new investment and creating new economic opportunities.”
The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is slated to receive $1 million to restore Good Fellow Lodge. The funding will be used to install a new municipal water line to the lodge, which would be the first step in a much needed restoration effort to the historically significant structure. The lodge is deteriorating and there is a fear that it will collapse and have to be removed completely. The restoration of the lodge will allow the Indiana Dunes Learning Center to expand its educational programs. This project will help provide valuable hands-on learning experiences that inspire community and environmental stewardship among the citizens of Northwest Indiana. According to the most recent figures from the National Park Service, 2.1 million people visit the Lakeshore each year, generating $55.3 million in local revenues.
“Save the Dunes Council appreciates the funding obtained by Congressman Visclosky for the restoration of Good Fellow Lodge,” said Save the Dunes Council Executive Director Tom Anderson. “The lodge is an important historic feature of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and is integral to the future of the Indiana Dunes Environmental Learning Center. We appreciate the Congressman’s support for this funding, and his long-term support for the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.”
The City of Portage is slated to receive $800,000 for water infrastructure improvements. The funding will be used to complete the second phase of improvements at the existing water reclamation facility, which includes enhancements to the solids handling infrastructure to accommodate increased biosolids production associated with increased flows.
Portage Mayor Olga Velazquez stated, “Portage appreciates the continued support of the Congress and of Congressman Visclosky in helping the City improve our wastewater treatment facility. This newest funding opportunity will be utilized to improve our biosolids treatment and handling to continue to provide our residents with efficient and effective waste handling.”
“These two projects have the double benefit of preserving and protecting our environment and encouraging economic activity,” said Visclosky. “The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is one of our great natural treasures, attracting many people to the region each year, and investment in wastewater infrastructure provides significant environmental, public health, and economic benefits to local residents.”
The Fiscal Year 2010 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill is scheduled for consideration on the floor of the House of Representatives on June 25. Subsequent to House passage it must be approved by the Senate before it can be signed into law by the President. |
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