FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                    Contact: Gretchen M. Wintermantel
Nov. 10, 2005                                                   202.225.6511

Kanjorski Secures Nearly $10.5 Million For Wyoming Valley Levee Raising Project
Allocation includes $2 Million For Riverfront Project

WASHINGTON - Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) today announced that the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives includes $10.476 million for the Wyoming Valley Levee Raising Project.

Of the $10.476 million, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expects to allocate approximately $2 million to the Wilkes-Barre Riverfront Development initiative. The nearly $30 million Riverfront Development project includes two portal openings in the levee for pedestrian crossing, one located at Northampton Street and the other directly across from the historic Irem Temple. The Riverfront Project also includes a river landing area, a fishing and boating pier, a performance amphitheater and walking trails.

"I am pleased to have secured this funding to continue the Wyoming Valley Levee Raising project, which is currently estimated to cost more than $200 million and has been of utmost priority to me since taking office in 1985. Now that the Wyoming Valley has Agnes-level flood protection, it is important to proceed with development along the Susquehanna River as we transform it from being a threat to being an asset to our region. The recreational opportunities that will abound once the Riverfront Development Project is complete will provide tremendous economic benefits to our entire region," Congressman Kanjorski said.

"Congressman Kanjorski has worked tirelessly to obtain the funding needed to protect the people of the Wyoming Valley from the threat of flooding from the Susquehanna River," said Luzerne County Commission Chairman Gregory A. Skrepenak. "The allocation from the bill passed today will continue that mission, but will also improve the quality of life for those who live here, provide incentives in attracting new business and industry, and create countless tourism opportunities.  We thank Congressman Kanjorski for securing this funding which is essential to our overall plans for revitalizing downtown Wilkes-Barre, and enhancing life in Luzerne County."

Congressman Kanjorski obtained approval from the Corps several years ago to replace the earthen levee embankment with a sleeker floodwall to preserve space and to save the old-growth trees along the River Commons.

The funds secured today will permit the Corps to break ground on the project sometime this spring in time for the new construction season.  The Corps plans to first construct the portal openings and then begin work on the other elements after completion of the two portals.  Construction will take approximately 18 to 24 months. 

The Luzerne County Commissioners also plan to undertake a $3.2 million renovation of the Courthouse Gardens and a $3.5 million realignment of River Street as part of this project. 

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