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Ryan Secures Reauthorization of Racine Harbor

Army Corps’ harbor maintenance may resume as result

WASHINGTON – First District Congressman Paul Ryan today announced that the U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation – H.R. 2557, the Water Resources Development Act of 2003 – that includes the reauthorization of the Racine Harbor under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  Ryan had requested the harbor reauthorization so that Racine can benefit, as it did prior to 1986, from maintenance by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  The House passed this legislation today by a vote of 412-8, and Ryan voted in favor of the bill.

 “Keeping Racine Harbor in good shape is vital to our community’s economy and environment,” Ryan said. “The Army Corps of Engineers helped Racine with harbor maintenance in the past, and will be able to do so again once the reauthorization is made law.  Without this federal involvement, Racine would shoulder a heavy long-term cost burden related to harbor repairs.” 

The federal government’s involvement with Racine Harbor dates back to the 1870’s with dredging and breakwater improvements.  In 1986, the County and City of Racine requested that Racine Harbor be released from federal oversight and placed under their control.  This action enabled local authorities to expedite the waterfront development project. However, looking ahead, long-term maintenance of the harbor would benefit greatly from the expertise and assistance of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

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