The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant funding boost of $3.6 billion under the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aimed at upgrading water infrastructure across the United States. This announcement on October 23 comes in addition to $2.6 billion disclosed earlier this month, culminating in a total investment of $6.2 billion for Fiscal Year 2025.
This initiative is part of a broader five-year, $50 billion commitment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, marking the largest investment in water infrastructure in U.S. history. A key aspect of this law is its focus on supporting disadvantaged communities by providing most of the funding as grants or loans that do not require repayment.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “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 highlighted that the EPA is collaborating with states and local partners to address various challenges such as lead contamination, PFAS pollutants, water main breaks, sewer overflows, and climate resilience while also creating jobs.
The funds will be distributed through existing federal-state partnerships known as the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF). These programs offer low-interest loans for state-run projects aimed at overcoming financial hurdles related to water infrastructure upgrades.
Today's funding includes $2.6 billion from the Clean Water General Supplemental funds and Emerging Contaminant funds amounting to $225 million. Additionally, $800 million is allocated under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.
To assist communities facing obstacles in planning and securing federal funding, the EPA has introduced its Water Technical Assistance program. This initiative aids disadvantaged communities in identifying water issues and developing upgrade plans to apply for necessary funding.
This effort aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative which aims to ensure that 40% of certain federal investments benefit marginalized communities affected by pollution and underinvestment.
For further details on state-specific allocations for 2025 and other related projects funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, resources are available on both Clean Water State Revolving Fund website and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund website.
The State Revolving Fund programs have been pivotal in financing local water infrastructure projects across America for over three decades. They provide low-cost financing options designed to deliver sustainable improvements in water quality and public health nationwide through their revolving loan structure.
