Requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintain its current hours of operation at its four locks and dams on the Ouachita River.
The resolution emphasizes that decreased operational hours would not only affect navigation but also the broader economic stability of the region. Local businesses, such as D&J Construction and Ouachita Terminals, have already expressed concerns about the loss of river traffic, which could deter future investments in port facilities. Furthermore, the resolution points out that industries currently dependent on the river, like Graphic Packaging, could face operational challenges, threatening jobs and resulting in significant economic losses for the surrounding communities.
Senate Resolution No. 47 urges the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintain its current operational hours at the four locks and dams on the Ouachita River. The resolution is a response to the Corps' plans to reduce these operational hours, which are critical for maintaining the navigational capabilities of the river. It highlights the historical significance of the navigation project, which dates back to the 1920s, and expresses concerns that any reduction in operational capacity could severely impact local economies reliant on the river for transportation and commerce.
The sentiment around this resolution is one of urgency and apprehension. Local officials and businesses strongly oppose the Corps' plans to cut back operations, perceiving it as a threat to their livelihoods and regional economic health. Supporters of the resolution argue passionately for the need to ensure that the navigation project remains robust to prevent long-term negative consequences for the area. The appeals to the Corps reflect a collective anxiety about the future navigability of the Ouachita River and its importance to local commerce.
A notable point of contention lies in the cost of maintaining full operational hours, as the Corps has indicated financial constraints impacting its ability to sustain current operations. While the Corps claims that maintaining the navigational system costs approximately $10.5 million annually, the budget for the current fiscal year was around $7 million. This disparity raises questions about funding sources and sustainability of the navigation project, leading to discussions about budgeting priorities and the need for investment in local infrastructure.