Media

With hurricane watches and warnings in effect for much of the East Coast, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to work closely with the governors, tribal and local officials of affected states to ensure they have the resources they need.

This afternoon, I met with Jack Russell, President of the St. Marys County Board of Commissioners, and Bob Kelly, St. Marys County Director of Emergency Services, to discuss preparations for the expected impact of Hurricane Irene.

The Democrats Make It In America plan is an important initiative to strengthen American manufacturing and the well-paying jobs it creates, and to ensure that companies like BAE Systems can continue to support local jobs and strengthen our economy.

This morning, Congressman Hoyer met with the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games Mens Soccer gold medalists from St. Marys County to congratulate the team on their victory and present them with a Congressional Record tribute.

WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) released the following statement after Governor OMalley declared a State of Emergency due to the expected impact of Hurricane Irene:"I commend Governor OMalley for taking swift action and declaring a State of Emergency for Maryland in preparation for the expected impact of Hurricane Irene. I urge residents of the Fifth District to take all necessary precautions in preparation for this major storm and to help your friends and neighbors prepare as well. I will continue to work with Governor OMalley and local and federal officials to ensure that we are properly prepared before, during and after the storm and to address any problems that arise as a result of it."For more storm information and additional resources, please visit Marylands Emergency Management Agency.

BRANDYWINE, MD This afternoon, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) joined the State Highway Administration for a ceremony marking the completion of Phase I of the Brandywine Interchange Project, which seeks to help ease traffic congestion during peak travel times on MD 5 by providing additional lane capacity and improving pedestrian safety. Construction began in the Spring of 2010 and was completed on August 20, 2011. Hoyer has secured more than $18 million for the multi-phased project.

We are all grateful that there were no major injuries in the Fifth District as a result of today's earthquake, according to initial reports.