EPA announces $3.6 billion investment in water infrastructure

(UI) — The Biden-Harris Administration is directing $3.6 billion toward upgrading water infrastructure across the United States as part of its Investing in America agenda.

This announcement, made on Oct. 23, is part of the larger $6.2 billion in water-related investments for Fiscal Year 2025, with an additional $2.6 billion also announced earlier this month.

The funding will help communities manage wastewater, protect freshwater resources, and ensure safe drinking water for homes, schools, and businesses.

This initiative forms part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which earmarks $50 billion over five years for water infrastructure projects—making it the largest such investment in U.S. history. The law prioritizes funding for disadvantaged communities, with the majority of today's $3.6 billion going toward grants or loans that do not need to be repaid.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan highlighted the importance of these investments, saying, “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment.” He added that the initiative addresses a wide range of water issues, including lead contamination, PFAS, sewer overflows, and climate resilience, while creating well-paying jobs.

The funding will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), which have been key to federal-state partnerships in financing water projects. The $3.6 billion includes $2.6 billion for Clean Water General Supplemental funds, $225 million for Emerging Contaminants, and $800 million under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.

To support communities with limited resources, the EPA has introduced the Water Technical Assistance program, helping disadvantaged areas identify water challenges and develop upgrade plans. This initiative is in line with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to direct 40% of the benefits from federal investments to marginalized communities facing pollution and underinvestment.

For more details, including a state-by-state breakdown of the funding, visit the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund websites or the EPA’s interactive public portal.

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