The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant investment of $3.6 billion under the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to enhance water infrastructure across the United States. This funding, combined with $2.6 billion previously announced, totals $6.2 billion for Fiscal Year 2025 and aims to support communities in upgrading essential water infrastructure.
The funds will be distributed through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), a partnership between federal and state governments designed to provide low-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects. Pennsylvania is set to receive over $132 million from this allocation, which includes more than $98.5 million for Clean Water General Supplemental funds, over $8.5 million for Clean Water Emerging Contaminant funds, and over $25.2 million from the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of this investment, stating that it addresses local challenges such as lead in drinking water, PFAS contamination, and climate resilience while creating jobs and ensuring clean water access.
EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz highlighted the significance of these investments for regions with older infrastructure like the Mid-Atlantic Region.
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania expressed gratitude for the federal support that aligns with his administration's goals of providing safe water to residents.
U.S. Representative Dwight Evans celebrated the additional funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which he supported.
Representative Chrissy Houlahan noted that this investment would modernize wastewater treatment facilities and improve stormwater management in her district.
Representative Susan Wild acknowledged the positive impact of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on community health and aging infrastructure improvements.
Representative Summer Lee emphasized that this funding ensures safe drinking water access as a fundamental right for all families regardless of their socioeconomic status or location.
The EPA is also advancing its efforts through its Water Technical Assistance program to help disadvantaged communities overcome barriers in accessing federal funding by identifying challenges and developing upgrade plans.
For further details on state allocations and project updates funded by BIL, resources are available on various EPA websites dedicated to clean water initiatives.
