Robert Wittman U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia's 1st district | Official U.S. House Headshot
Robert Wittman U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia's 1st district | Official U.S. House Headshot
On March 4, 2025, Congressman Rob Wittman and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced the reintroduction of a bipartisan bill aimed at protecting America's working waterfronts. The Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act seeks to establish a grant program and preservation loan fund to support waterfront-preservation efforts. It also proposes the creation of a Working Waterfronts Task Force within the U.S. Department of Commerce.
"Deteriorating waterfronts don’t just weaken our economy—they erode the heart of our communities, especially in Virginia’s First District," said Congressman Wittman. He emphasized that working waterfronts are crucial for businesses, economic vitality, and community life but face threats from population growth and development.
Congresswoman Pingree highlighted similar challenges in Maine, noting that only about 20 miles of the state's coastline remain dedicated to ocean commerce. "Our goal with this legislation is to bring real, lasting investments to our country’s working waterfronts: protecting jobs, strengthening infrastructure, improving public access, and encouraging greater climate resiliency," she stated.
The bill offers support to states, Tribes, and municipalities aiming to preserve their working waterfronts. It includes:
- A Working Waterfronts Grant Program providing matching grants.
- A revolving loan fund modeled after state drinking water loans.
- Authorization of $50 million each for both programs.
- A task force to prioritize needs amid climate change and trade threats.
Entities with approved plans can apply for funding to allocate locally. The legislation has garnered support from several organizations including the National Working Waterfront Network and East Coast Shellfish Growers Association.
Kristin Uiterwyk from the National Working Waterfront Network commented on the necessity of federal legislation like this act due to increased demands on working waterfronts over the last decade. "The proposed legislation includes important stepping stones to support our working waterfronts," she said.
Members of the Fishing Communities Coalition praised Representatives Pingree and Wittman for their efforts in introducing this bill as it addresses gentrification and climate change threats through strategic investments in infrastructure.
Read the full bill text here.
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