Westmoreland Review

Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler, U.S. Senator John Fetterman, and other Pennsylvania lawmakers have called on the U.S. Coast Guard to reconsider plans that could see personnel, equipment, and vessels removed from Coast Guard Station Pittsburgh. The station plays a critical role in responding to natural disasters, maintaining navigational aids along the rivers, safeguarding infrastructure, and addressing potential threats across 328 miles of navigable waterways.

In a letter to the Coast Guard, the lawmakers expressed their concerns: “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.”

Reschenthaler has been active in supporting initiatives for the Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela Rivers throughout his time in Congress. His efforts include requesting $205 million for Fiscal Year 2025 to complete construction work at Montgomery Lock and Dam. In October 2024, he led a letter addressing dredging issues on the Monongahela River to the U.S. Army Corps. He also urged action on water depth issues in August 2024 to ensure continued economic support for southwestern Pennsylvania.

Additionally, Reschenthaler secured $41 million in March 2024 for completing the Monongahela River Project. In November 2023, he raised concerns about commercial and recreational access to the Allegheny River's lock and dam system through a letter to the U.S. Army Corps.