On October 23, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a significant investment of $3.6 billion in water infrastructure under the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding aims to enhance water systems and ensure community safety across the nation. When combined with $2.6 billion announced earlier this month, the total investment for Fiscal Year 2025 reaches $6.2 billion.
The funds will be distributed through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), which are federal-state partnerships providing low-interest loans for water infrastructure projects. Kentucky is set to receive $31,670,000 in Clean Water General Supplemental funds, $2,734,000 in Emerging Contaminant funds, and $9,301,000 from the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.
This initiative is part of a larger five-year plan to invest $50 billion in water infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law emphasizes support for disadvantaged communities by offering grants or non-repayable loans.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated: “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 emphasized that this historic investment would address various challenges such as lead contamination and climate resilience while creating jobs.
Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle remarked: “Clean water is crucial for healthy lives and healthy economies.” She highlighted EPA's efforts to assist communities facing environmental challenges due to aging infrastructure.
Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) commented on the importance of maintaining clean water: “Clean, safe water is one of our most fundamental needs—we can’t let crumbling infrastructure continue to put the health of our communities and the strength of our economy at risk.”
The EPA's Water Technical Assistance program aims to help disadvantaged communities plan upgrades and secure funding. This aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative which seeks to direct 40% of certain federal investments' benefits towards marginalized communities.
For further information on state allocations and project details under this initiative, resources are available on EPA's websites dedicated to Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs.
