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Congresswoman Erin Houchin Advocates Urgent Action to Address Erosion Threatening Clarksville Shoreline

February 27, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 29, 2024) – Congresswoman Erin Houchin recently testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure committee about a critical issue affecting her constituents – the erosion of the Clarksville shoreline along the Ohio River. Since the completion of the lock and dam system in 1963 by the Army Corps of Engineers, the redirection of water toward the shoreline has resulted in the loss of approximately 100 yards of Indiana’s land.

The erosion poses a severe threat to local businesses, roads, parks, and historical sites including the iconic George Rogers Clark home site, marking the historic meeting spot of Lewis and Clark. This area holds immense cultural significance as it symbolizes the starting point of their expedition.

While Congresswoman Houchin has consistently raised concerns with the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Corps acknowledges the severity of the problem, the required attention and action have been lacking. To address this urgent matter, Congresswoman Houchin is calling for prioritization of the Clarksville Shoreline Stabilization Project in the upcoming Water Resources Development Act reauthorization.

Delaying this crucial project further puts Indiana at risk of greater losses, affecting the local community and infrastructure. Congresswoman Houchin urges swift action from the Army Corps of Engineers to protect the Clarksville shoreline and preserve this historically significant area for the state of Indiana.

"I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to secure the necessary support for the Clarksville Shoreline Stabilization Project. I remain committed to addressing this issue until it is resolved," stated Congresswoman Houchin.