Shuster and Rothfus Praise Major Step Toward Completion of Upper Ohio Navigation Project

Press Release

Congressman Bill Shuster (R-Hollidaysburg) and Congressman Keith Rothfus (R-Sewickley) praised the Army Corps of Engineers' publication of a Chief's report today recommending that Congress fund crucial renovations to the Emsworth, Dashields, and Montgomery (EDM) locks and dams along the Ohio River. Both Representatives have been ardent champions of the project and released the following statement:

"Today's report is an important milestone on the road to completing this project," said Congressman Shuster. "I am a firm believer that the goods and services being produced in Western Pennsylvania can stand up against the best in the world, and this will allow us to deliver our products faster and continue the economic growth of the region. I have been an avid supporter of this project from the very beginning, and look forward to continuing working in my capacity as Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to push for its completion."

"This project will ensure that Western Pennsylvania remains economically competitive and that locally produced steel, machinery, coal, agricultural, and other goods can get to market quickly and efficiently," said Congressman Rothfus. "Our work to get this project over the finish line is not done, but this report represents a very important step forward. I will continue to work with Chairman Shuster, who has been a supporter of this effort, to ensure that this crucial infrastructure project is authorized in the forthcoming water resources bill."

"Congressman Rothfus and Congressman Shuster have been indispensable allies in fighting for this critical infrastructure project both in Western Pennsylvania and in Congress," said Peter Stephaich, Chairman and CEO of Campbell Transportation. "My company is committed to providing efficient, reliable service to a vast number of industries in our region -- but in order to continue to do this, we need sound and reliable waterways infrastructure. This project will have an impact on our whole region for generations and decades to come."

"The transportation and commerce that occur along inland waterways are absolutely essential to the maintenance of a thriving local economy in Western Pennsylvania, and this is something Congressman Shuster and Congressman Rothfus understand so well," said Mary Ann Bucci, Executive Director of the Port of Pittsburgh. "I know firsthand the many workers and business that will benefit from the completion of the Upper Ohio Navigation Project. Today's news marks an important milestone for all of them.

The inland waterway system serves as a vital commercial transportation link for millions of Americans. The Port of Pittsburgh alone handles over 35 million tons of cargo each year, including significant quantities of petroleum products, processed metal, grain, construction equipment, chemicals, and coal. Aging and defective structures in the EDM locks and dams system cause frequent disruptions to riverborne commerce and transportation. The Chief's report indicates the cost-benefit ratio for this project is 3.7 to 1.

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