South OC Times

U.S. Representative Young Kim of California's 40th District has cast her vote in favor of the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA), a bipartisan and bicameral legislative measure aimed at supporting projects within the United States Army Corps of Engineers' Civil Works mission areas. These projects focus on mitigating damage from natural disasters such as floods, storms, and hurricanes, as well as protecting shorelines and restoring ecosystems.

The House version of the bill had previously passed in July 2024 with Representative Kim's support. The WRDA authorizes several local projects that Representative Kim has been advocating for. Among these is an update to Congress on the status of the Santa Ana River Mainstem Project (SARP), which provides flood protection to communities across Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.

Additionally, the act allocates $6.5 million for the construction of Well 24 by the Yorba Linda Water District. This project aims to provide a new and affordable water supply within its service area. Another significant initiative identified as a priority under this act is the Westminster-East Garden Grove (WEGG) project. It is recognized under the Corps’ existing Ability to Pay authority, with an expedited completion timeline. The WEGG project is expected to reduce risks related to flooding within a 74-square-mile area in Orange County and save residents approximately $3.7 million annually in flood insurance premiums.

Representative Young Kim stated, "Protecting public safety is one of my top priorities as your representative," adding her pride in supporting this bipartisan WRDA bill that ensures prioritization by the Army Corps of Engineers for projects that enhance community safety across California’s 40th District.