EMERSON SEEKS FUNDING FOR LEVEE DISTRICT

Southeast Missouri could receive more than $14.5 million in federal flood protection projects following passage of the Energy and Water Appropriations bill Thursday by the House of Representatives.

The bill must be approved by the Senate before it can be sent to Pres. Bill Clinton .

U.S. Representative JoAnn Emerson, R-Mo., a member of the House appropriations Committee, worked closely with the committee to secure the funds, which were approved by a 301-118 vote.

Emerson said the funding would help to maintain the integrity of Southeast Missouri levee systems. This move would provide increased protection for homes and families and improved infrastructure that could bring jobs and economic development to the region.

Projects in the Energy and Water Appropriations bill included:

* $2.35 million for general construction along the Cape LaCroix Walker Branch

* $401,000 for SEMO Port

* $5 million for the St. Johns Bayou/New Madrid Floodway

* $7 million for Wappapello Lake

* $354,000 for New Madrid County Harbor maintenance

* $2295,000 for Caruthersville harbor

* $735,000 for New Madrid County harbor widening

* $810,000 for Pemiscot County Harbor widening