No one knows what infrastructure investments need to be made in communities better than the people who live there. That’s why WRDA puts the power in the hands of states, territories, and tribes to invest. While this legislation provides tangible dollars, it also directs the Corps to provide strategic guidance, expertise, and support. This can make a huge difference for disadvantaged, rural, and Tribal communities that need extra support to execute critical projects. WRDA helps achieve equity because all communities should have clean water and modern water resources no matter their zip code.
Importantly, WRDA takes important steps to strengthen its partnerships—the bedrock of project delivery—by increasing communication and coordination with partners, especially with Tribal communities.