Congressman Jim Langevin
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Appropriations Requests

Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

April 3, 2009
John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission
Amount Requested: $ 750,000
This funding will support implementation of a National Heritage Corridor Management Plan.  This request focuses on several ongoing projects as well as a few new initiatives that need funding in FY2010 and which the Commission considers to be important, both because of their consistency with the management plan and to support partnerships and partners who are critical to the long term sustainability of Corridor programs.  These projects include the promotion of heritage tourism activity in Blackstone Valley; completion of the Corridor’s identity signage program; and a Blackstone Valley Heritage Farmer’s Market program.  Corridor programs and projects benefit local residents, organizations and institutions, and have been proven to have a positive economic impact, improve quality of life, and create awareness nationally and internationally about the history of the Blackstone River Valley.
  Recipient's address: One Depot Square, Woonsocket, RI 02895

April 3, 2009
Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex
Amount Requested: $ 900,000
Funding provided to the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex will allow for the continuation of land protection programs through acquisition of lands adjacent to existing National Wildlife Refuges which contain high natural resource values, in order to conserve the nation's wildlife resources.  Specific projects include the Tower Hill project on the John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge in South Kingstown, Washington County, and the Headquarters Unit expansion of the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge in Charlestown.  Maintaining natural systems, conserving our wildlife heritage, and protecting undeveloped places provides a critical opportunity for our state’s residents and visitors to learn about and appreciate their natural environment, and incorporating such lands into the National Wildlife Refuge System will ensure they are conserved for future generations to enjoy.  Federal funding of the program results in a direct infusion of funds into the local communities.
  Recipient's address: 50 Bend Road, Charlestown, RI 02813

April 3, 2009
Warwick City Hall Clock Tower Restoration
Amount Requested: $354,803
This request will assist the City of Warwick by matching funds for the restoration of the historic bell and clock tower above Warwick City Hall through the Save America's Treasures program.  Having fallen into disrepair because of the deteriorating effects of time and weather, specific preservation needs include improving the structural integrity of the tower, dome and vane; repairs to metal, ornamental and wood surfaces; and replacement of balusters; the restoration of three clock faces; and painting of the entire structure.  Historical landmarks are an essential part of the cultural landscape of any community, and their preservation is critical.  Federal funds would leverage an additional $50,000 in state funding.  The project would create jobs and, through the preservation of a historical landmark, continue to be an important source of civic pride and part of our history, and national heritage.
  Recipient's address: City of Warwick, 3275 Post Road, Warwick, RI 02886

April 3, 2009
Water Systems Council
Amount Requested: $ 2.5 million
I have joined several colleagues in requesting funding for the Water Systems Council’s Wellcare Program, which is considered a national project by the Appropriations Committee.  The Wellcare Program serves as a clearinghouse for critical well maintenance, construction and testing information.  WSC's Wellcare Hotline responds to well and water quality related calls from citizens and public officials, responding to over 3,600 calls during the past year.  The Wellcare program has also supported educational workshops targeting health officials, school children and well owners in 32 states, including Rhode Island.
  Recipient's address: 1101 30th Street, NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20007