The Trans-America Canal from Delaware to California could almost double the arable land in the USA and serve Atlantic-to-Pacific shipping needs, as well.
The seawater brought inland, de-salted, would irrigate federal lands in the Desert Southwest; the soil from digging the canal would provide fertile topsoil, making extensive arable land. This would increase the utility of the federal lands in the desert.
The dimensioning of the ship canal, greater than Panamax in each direction, would speed bulky goods between coasts, and Europe and Asia.
A distinct Canal Authority could issue bonds, secured by the value of the new arable lands.
Skilled labor, and unskilled labor in some hand dug portions, would be a jobs boon.
Announcing the canal would improve USG credit standing.
~WBTM~ CQS