The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a substantial funding initiative under the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allocating $3.6 billion to enhance water infrastructure across the United States. This latest funding complements an earlier allocation of $2.6 billion, bringing 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), which are federal-state partnerships aimed at addressing financial challenges in water infrastructure projects. Michigan is set to receive significant portions of this funding: $106,994,000 from the Clean Water General Supplemental funds, $9,236,000 for Emerging Contaminant initiatives, and $17,433,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.
This investment is part of a broader five-year plan involving a historic $50 billion commitment to water infrastructure improvements nationwide. The law prioritizes disadvantaged communities by mandating that most of these funds be provided as grants or non-repayable loans.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable water systems: “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity.” He noted that failures in water infrastructure pose risks to health and environmental stability.
Senator Debbie Stabenow highlighted how this legislation benefits Michigan specifically: “This new investment will improve our water systems... making our state a safer place for families.” Senator Gary Peters echoed these sentiments by underscoring efforts to address contaminants like PFAS while protecting freshwater resources.
Representative Dan Kildee stressed that access to safe drinking water should be universal: “Thanks to President Biden... we are working to ensure that everyone has access to safe drinking water.” Representative Debbie Dingell also advocated for clean and affordable water access as fundamental rights.
The EPA's Water Technical Assistance program aims to support communities facing barriers in accessing federal aid by helping them identify challenges and develop plans for infrastructure upgrades. These efforts align with the Justice40 Initiative's goal of directing 40% of certain federal investments' benefits toward marginalized communities.
For further details on state allocations and specific projects funded by this initiative, interested parties can visit relevant EPA websites dedicated to Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds.
