December 09, 2024

Reschenthaler, Fetterman, PA Colleagues Sound Alarm at Coast Guard Station Pittsburgh

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), alongside U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Summer Lee (D-PA), urged the U.S. Coast Guard to protect the personnel, equipment, and vessels from being removed at Coast Guard Station (STA) Pittsburgh.

 

The station is responsible for responding to natural disasters, maintaining and repairing navigational aids along the rivers, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and responding to potential threats. Overall, the Coast Guard is responsible for 328 miles of navigable waterways in the region.

 

In the letter, the lawmakers wrote: “We write regarding our significant concerns with the reduction of Coast Guard personnel and the potential removal of equipment and vessels at STA Pittsburgh. This decision will undoubtedly have steep economic costs for southwestern Pennsylvania. We must keep this waterway safe and navigable to protect the region’s economy and way of life.”

 

Throughout his tenure in Congress, Reschenthaler has championed numerous efforts for the Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela Rivers:

  • Reschenthaler requested $205 million for Fiscal Year 2025 to physically complete construction work at the Montgomery Lock and Dam.
  • In October 2024, Reschenthaler led a letter to the U.S. Army Corps to alleviate dredging issues on the Monongahela River.
  • In August 2024, Reschenthaler led a letter to the U.S. Army Corps(USACE) urging them to fix the water depth issues allowing the river to continue supporting southwestern Pennsylvania’s economy.
  • In March 2024, Reschenthaler secured $41 million to help complete the Monongahela River Project.
  • In November 2023, Reschenthaler led a letter to the U.S. Army Corps outlining concerns for commercial and recreational access to the Allegheny River – specifically the lock and dam system.

 

Read the full letter here