WASHINGTON — Last week, Representative Ronny Jackson (TX-13) voted in favor of the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 (WRDA), which included two key wins for Wichita Falls and Midwestern State University (MSU).
Every two years, Congress considers the WRDA, which makes key investments in water infrastructure projects and provides the authority needed to address water supply and infrastructure needs across the country. This year’s WRDA contained a provision to allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to engage with MSU and the City of Wichita Falls on a proposal to restore and maintain Sikes Lake. It will also determine the feasibility of moving the lake’s dredging under the control of the USACE, which is a priority for Wichita Falls and MSU. Additionally, this year’s WRDA authorized expedited completion of a Red River Chloride Control Project to purify water in the Wichita Falls area to ensure the city, Sheppard Air Force Base, and surrounding communities have safe drinking water for years to come.
Jackson said: “The people and industries of Wichita Falls provide extraordinary value on the local, state, and national levels. By prioritizing these projects, Congress has recognized that effective water infrastructure systems are critical in economically vibrant communities such as Wichita Falls. The people of Wichita Falls have my support as we pursue solutions to the challenges faced at Sikes Lake and with water quality in the greater Wichita Falls area.”
