The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a new allocation of $3.6 billion under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) aimed at upgrading water infrastructure across the nation. As part of this initiative, Puerto Rico is set to receive over $67 million for improvements in drinking water and wastewater systems. This includes nearly $25 million previously announced for Lead and Copper Rule Improvements.
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. Puerto Rico's share includes $32.5 million from the Clean Water General Supplemental funds, $2.8 million from Emerging Contaminant funds, and $7.6 million from the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.
A significant portion of this funding is designated for disadvantaged communities, ensuring that grants or loans do not need to be repaid. The EPA aims to assist these communities in overcoming barriers to accessing federal funding through its Water Technical Assistance program.
“Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges.”
EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia emphasized the administration's commitment: “The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to providing safe drinking water, resources needed to upgrade aging infrastructure, and address harmful contaminants.”
For further details on how these investments are impacting communities nationwide or information on state-by-state allocations for 2025 funding, individuals can visit various EPA online resources including the Clean Water State Revolving Fund website.
