Gov. Gregoire�s statement on federal funding for Howard Hanson Dam repairs

For Immediate Release: May 13, 2010

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement regarding the announcement of $44 million in federal help secured by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray to help make repairs to the Howard Hanson dam:

�I thank Senator Patty Murray and the rest of our congressional delegation for their leadership and taking swift action to protect the Green River Valley. Securing $44 million to make critical interim repairs to the Howard Hanson Dam greatly reduces the possibility of a major flood event from a one in 25 chance, to one in 140, protecting the Valley until the permanent repairs are complete.

�This funding means additional security for those that live in the area. It means their loved ones and their property will have extra protection from dangerous flood waters. And it means our small business owners will have continued confidence that the Green River Valley is a great place to expand and be successful.�