Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C-  Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) applauded the inclusion of $83.7 million in proposed federal funds to the Norfolk Harbor project in the recently released President’s budget proposal. The proposed project funding was announced after Congressman Wittman, along with the entire Virginia Congressional delegation, authored a letter urging the President to prioritize the Norfolk Harbor Widening and Deepening project. Moreover, the budget proposal included a New Start designation, which allows the project to continue to the next steps of construction.

“The prioritization of the Norfolk Harbor Widening and Deepening project is of profound importance to the economic prosperity of the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Wittman. “The New Start Designation, along with the critical federal investment would provide a critical economic boom for Virginia, as well as allowing further reach into the Midwest. Although President Biden’s budget has many issues, the inclusion of this project is a wise decision that will hopefully enjoy broad, bipartisan support. I will remain a steadfast advocate for this project’s funding as Congress move to appropriate final allocations.”

“We are very happy to see that the President’s Budget includes a new start designation and funding for the construction of the inner harbor portion of our channel deepening and widening project,” said Virginia Port Authority CEO Stephen Edwards. “Earlier this week, The Port of Virginia welcomed the CMA CGM Marco Polo – the largest container vessel to call on the US East Coast. It was an historic day as well as a reminder of the shifting dynamics in the supply chain industry as well as the critical role that Virginia plays as a gateway for global trade.”

Port of Virginia - one of the largest and busiest ports on the eastern seaboard - is one of the Commonwealth’s most powerful economic engines. On an annual basis, the Port is responsible for more than 400,000 jobs and $92 billion in spending across our Commonwealth. Furthermore, the Port of Virginia generates more than seven and a half percent of our Gross State Product. Still, the Port’s true reach extends throughout the Mid-Atlantic and into the Midwest and Ohio Valley. In April, Congressman Wittman testified in front of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure ensuring other Members of Congress realize the vast benefits of this project.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he serves as the ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.

###