WASHINGTON, D.C. — On July 22nd, the House passed H.R. 8812, the Water Resources Development Act. The Water Resources Development Act, or WRDA, is legislation by Congress that focuses on managing various water-related issues. This includes building and maintaining structures like dams and levees, improving navigation, and preventing floods. The United States Army Corps of Engineers is mainly responsible for carrying out the tasks and projects outlined in WRDA.

“This is a major win for our community and the future of this region,” said Rep. Angelia Orr. “As Central Texas continues to grow, reliable water infrastructure will be vitally important. I want to thank Congressman Ellzey for his hard work in bringing attention to Lake Aquilla by including this local project in The Water Resources Development Act.”

"As a county deeply affected by water management issues, we welcome the passage of H.R. 8812, the Water Resources Development Act. I want to recognize the hard work of Congressman Ellzey and his support of this important legislation,” said Hill County Judge Justin W. Lewis. “This bill is crucial for addressing our infrastructure needs, including the maintenance of dams and levees, ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources, and bolstering flood prevention efforts. It further sets in motion the necessary mechanisms to make certain Hill County has the necessary water as we continue to grow.”

"The leaders of Hillsboro and of Hill County have worked to expand the capacity of Lake Aquilla for a number of years,” said Rep. Jake Ellzey. “They saw the growth coming to our community, took action, and were met with bureaucratic roadblocks. The language I included in the WRDA directs the Army Corps of Engineers to quickly review the ongoing study to make more water available to our communities. The growth in our district can no longer wait, and I’m working on making this much-needed project a reality.”