Waterway Activation: Task Force for River Freight Diversification and Economic Development
This Act establishes a dedicated task force to study and develop recommendations for improving freight use and economic development along the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela River corridors. The goal is to expand the use of barges, which are safer and more environmentally friendly, to strengthen supply chains and revitalize deindustrialized regions. This initiative aims to attract new investments and create jobs in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Key points
Task Force Establishment: Creation of a group of federal and local experts to coordinate investments and projects along key river corridors.
Regional Economic Support: The task force will identify critical projects and connect them with Federal, State, and local funding opportunities to stimulate growth in coal and post-industrial communities.
Improved Transport and Environment: Promotion of waterway transport, which is more fuel-efficient and has lower emissions than rail or truck transport, potentially reducing logistics costs.
Funding Authorization: $5 million is authorized to be appropriated annually for fiscal years 2024 through 2034 to support the task force's activities.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_3846
Sponsor: Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA]
Process start date: 2024-02-29