December 20, 2007
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Duluth, Minn., U.S.A.—The Duluth Seaway Port Authority today applauds Congress for its approval on December 19 of funding for key programs supporting the Great Lakes maritime industry.
The funding was included in the Omnibus Appropriations Bill H.R. 2764.
Particular thanks go to Congressman David R. Obey (D-WI), for his integral support and leadership in securing funds for the following crucial initiatives:
Great Ships Initiative - $980,000
Funds are earmarked within the U.S. Department of Transportation's budget for the Great Ships Initiative. The ballast water treatment research center is a joint project of the U.S. and Canadian Great Lakes ports, the Northeast Midwest Institute, the University of Wisconsin and the University of Minnesota. Combined with contributions from the ports, grants from the U.S. federal government and previous earmarks from Congress, the project has now received more than $4.2 million in funding.
Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute - $980,000
Funds are earmarked within the U.S. Department of Transportation's budget for the Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute, located at the University of Wisconsin - Superior. The GLMRI serves as a University-based research service to the Great Lakes maritime industry. Among other things, GLMRI is currently funding the port environmental survey being conducted by AGLP and Purdue University.
Great Lakes Dredging - $138.4 million
Funds are earmarked within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' budget for various dredging projects at Great Lakes ports or connecting channels. The Great Lakes region received a total of $138.4 million for dredging, disposal facility construction/maintenance, and Soo Lock maintenance. This amount reflects a $31.8 million increase (30 percent increase) over the Corps of Engineers' budget request for the Great Lakes for FY08.
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ADDITIONAL CONTACT:
Steven A. Fisher, Executive Director, American Great Lakes Ports, Phone: 202-625-2102 |
