The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant funding initiative to upgrade water infrastructure in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The city will receive a state revolving fund loan of $348 million, with an additional $42 million available if needed. This announcement was made by EPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott, Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell, and City Manager Jeff Pomeranz at an event in Cedar Rapids.
“Reliable wastewater treatment is a cornerstone of environmental health and economic opportunity in any community,” said Pigott. “Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden-Harris administration is investing in water to help cities like Cedar Rapids secure a clean water future that protects public health and nature while powering local economies.”
The investment aims to enable Cedar Rapids to treat municipal wastewater and industrial waste streams from local businesses and factories. These upgrades are expected to support future residential and industrial growth, address nutrient reduction requirements, and protect local waterways. The project is anticipated to create over 100 local jobs during the estimated four-year construction period.
“This project has been a long time coming. We are excited to see our plan for improvements come to fruition and have the opportunity to stimulate our local economy in the process,” said Cedar Rapids Utilities Director Roy Hesemann.
“We are fortunate to have unique opportunities for major economic growth on the horizon. None of it would be possible without our water and wastewater infrastructure. The EPA and Iowa’s State Revolving Fund are another important part in connecting our community to needed infrastructure investments,” added O’Donnell.
Cedar Rapids plans to break ground on this project on November 1st of this year, marking a significant milestone for the city.
The Biden-Harris administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents the largest investment in U.S. water infrastructure history, allocating over $50 billion through EPA’s programs. This funding provides an opportunity for states, tribes, and localities to rebuild America's water infrastructure comprehensively.