Army Corps of Engineers Pauses $11 Billion in Projects Amid Shutdown
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced it will halt $11 billion worth of critical infrastructure projects due to the ongoing government shutdown. This decision, confirmed by Mick Mulvaney, President Trump’s acting chief of staff and former budget director, highlights the escalating consequences of the political impasse in Washington.
Impact on Infrastructure and Communities
The Army Corps of Engineers, responsible for managing essential infrastructure like dams, levees, and waterways, has paused projects ranging from flood control measures in hurricane-prone areas to upgrades for aging locks and dams crucial for commercial shipping.
Mulvaney attributed the pause to the lack of funding caused by the shutdown, now in its third week. “The Army Corps of Engineers is being forced to delay awarding contracts for these projects until the shutdown is resolved,” he stated.
Criticism and Warnings
Lawmakers, industry leaders, and environmental advocates have criticized the move, warning of its far-reaching impacts. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) emphasized, “This shutdown is not just a political game—it’s having real-world consequences for millions of Americans.”
Industries reliant on efficient transportation networks could face disruptions, while communities recovering from natural disasters remain vulnerable to future storms.
Shutdown Background and Broader Effects
The shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, stems from a standoff between President Trump and congressional Democrats over funding for a U.S.-Mexico border wall. As the shutdown continues, its effects ripple across federal agencies, with hundreds of thousands of employees furloughed or working without pay.
Economic and Environmental Concerns
Industry groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce warn that delayed infrastructure projects could harm businesses and cost jobs. Environmental advocates, including Collin O’Mara of the National Wildlife Federation, stress that the pause could worsen challenges like climate change and water management.
Uncertain Future
With no resolution in sight, the fate of the $11 billion in paused projects remains uncertain. The Army Corps of Engineers and the communities it serves are left in limbo, awaiting an end to the shutdown.
Stay updated on the latest developments regarding the government shutdown and its impact on the nation.
