Kirk Supports Dredging of Illinois Harbors

U.S. Senator Mark Kirk yesterday voted for critical funding to enhance shipping on Illinois waterways.

According to Senator Kirk, the fiscal year (FY) 2016 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act was blocked by 47 senators despite passing the Appropriations Committee 26-4 and is the third funding bill to be filibustered this year.

“This bill to keep our waterways open was the result of bipartisan cooperation, so there is no excuse for blocking it,” Senator Kirk said. “I will keep fighting to pass this bill so the Great Lakes and the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers can remain central to economic activity in Illinois.”

Senator Kirk worked to ensure the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund was funded at $1.254 billion, in line with the target authorized in the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014.

This will enable essential work on Illinois waterways and increase shipping capabilities through the Great Lakes and down the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.

The bill also supports efficient transportation and commerce with $1.5 million for annual dredging of several Illinois harbors and channels, including Waukegan Harbor.