The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant allocation of $3.6 billion under the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance water infrastructure nationwide. This new funding, combined with $2.6 billion previously announced, brings the total investment for Fiscal Year 2025 to $6.2 billion.
These funds will be distributed through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), supporting state-run low-interest loan programs aimed at addressing financing challenges in water infrastructure projects. Wisconsin is set to receive substantial allotments, including $67,272,000 from the Clean Water General Supplemental funds and additional allocations for emerging contaminants.
This initiative is part of a broader five-year plan involving a historic $50 billion investment in water infrastructure under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law mandates that most of this funding should benefit disadvantaged communities through grants or non-repayable loans.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of these investments: “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity... Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.”
Senator Tammy Baldwin highlighted the local impact: “No matter your zip code, every Wisconsin family should be confident when they turn on the tap, their drinking water is clean and safe.” She noted that this law helps replace lead pipes and protects against chemicals like PFAS.
Representative Gwen Moore acknowledged the administration's efforts: “The Biden-Harris administration continues to build on their promise to secure drinking water to every zip code.” Representative Mark Pocan also praised the initiative as vital for providing safe drinking water in Wisconsin.
The EPA's Water Technical Assistance program aims to support disadvantaged communities by helping them identify challenges and develop plans for infrastructure upgrades. This aligns with the Justice40 Initiative’s goal of directing 40% of federal investment benefits towards marginalized communities.
For further details on state-by-state funding allocations or specific projects funded by these initiatives, interested parties can visit relevant EPA websites or use public portals offering interactive data access related to both Drinking Water and Clean Water SRF programs.
