The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant allocation of $32,943,000 to the state of Oklahoma. This funding is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aimed at upgrading water infrastructure across the nation. The initiative is part of a broader five-year plan involving a $50 billion investment in water infrastructure, marking it as the largest in American history.
A key aspect of this law is its focus on aiding disadvantaged communities by providing grants or loans that do not require repayment. "Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. He emphasized the critical nature of maintaining robust water infrastructure to prevent threats to public health and environmental stability.
Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance highlighted the importance of addressing local water quality issues through this transformative funding. She noted the ongoing efforts to eliminate hazardous chemicals such as PFAS from water supplies while commending the administration for their commitment to protecting water infrastructure and creating economic opportunities.
The funds will be distributed via the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), which are longstanding federal-state partnerships designed to finance water infrastructure projects through low-interest loans. These funds include $2.6 billion for Clean Water General Supplemental projects, $225 million for Emerging Contaminant initiatives, and an additional $800 million specifically targeting drinking water contaminants.
Through its Water Technical Assistance program, EPA aims to support communities facing challenges in planning and accessing federal resources by helping them identify needs, develop plans for upgrades, and apply for necessary funding. This aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which seeks to ensure that 40% of certain federal investments benefit disadvantaged communities affected by underinvestment and pollution.
For more information on these initiatives or specific project details funded under this law, individuals can access various resources provided by EPA online.
