Rep. Tom Reed (R-Corning)
WASHINGTON – The Great Lakes are set to receive another round of federal funding.
On Monday Congressman Tom Reed announced that he and other members of the House have voted to allocate $300 million as part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The program will allow eight member states – including New York – to come together to implement a science-based and outcomes-focused plan of action for restoring and protecting the Great Lakes and their watersheds.
Others that qualify for funding for the program will include local communities, Native American tribes, conservation organizations, businesses and private industries.
In total, the Great Lakes currently generate more than 1.5 million jobs and $60 billion in wages annually, providing the foundation for a $30 billion regional tourism economy.
Reed said the bill received bipartisan support in the house and now goes to the Senate for further consideration.
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