The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced $28.7 million towards Arizona's efforts to identify and replace lead service lines, a crucial step in ensuring safe drinking water for residents. This funding, part of President Biden's commitment to replace every lead pipe in the nation, aims to protect public health and advance environmental justice.
Martha Guzman, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Every single person living in Arizona deserves access to clean, safe drinking water and a guarantee that they and their loved ones will be protected from lead contamination."
The investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is a significant move towards achieving the administration's goal of replacing 1.7 million lead pipes nationwide. U.S. Senator Mark Kelly highlighted the impact of the funding on Arizona, stating, "Access to clean drinking water is a right that will be expanded in Arizona thanks to this investment from our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law."
Governor Katie Hobbs expressed gratitude for the resources provided by the EPA, stating, "Water is our foundation, and access to clean drinking water is intrinsic to leading a healthy and prosperous life." The investment is not only a matter of public health but also an issue of environmental justice, as lead exposure disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income communities.
The funding will support the identification and replacement of lead pipes across Arizona, with a focus on disadvantaged communities. Chuck Podolak, Director of the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA), highlighted the importance of this financial assistance in ensuring clean drinking water for families in the state.
The EPA's commitment to addressing lead pipe replacement is part of a larger initiative under the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America Agenda. The administration's efforts have already shown results, with cities like Tucson receiving funds to develop plans for lead service line replacement and improve water quality for residents.
Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a total of $15 billion has been allocated to identify and replace lead service lines nationwide. This funding is a crucial step in reducing exposure to lead in drinking water and ensuring the health and safety of communities across the country.
For more information on the EPA's funding allocation and efforts to advance safe drinking water in Arizona and beyond, visit the EPA's Drinking Water website.
