The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant allocation of $184,464,000 for Texas as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding is aimed at upgrading water infrastructure and enhancing community safety across the state. The investment is part of a larger $50 billion initiative over five years, marking the largest investment in water infrastructure in U.S. history.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan highlighted the importance of this funding by 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 emphasized that the law's investment would address local challenges such as lead in drinking water and sewer overflows while creating jobs.
Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance commented on the transformative nature of this funding: “This transformative funding safeguards critical water infrastructure systems and addresses local water quality concerns.” She stressed the need to tackle hazardous chemicals like PFAS in drinking water and acknowledged the administration's efforts in protecting water infrastructure.
Funds from this initiative will be distributed through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), which are established federal-state partnerships focused on financing essential water infrastructure projects with low-interest loans. The announcement also includes specific allotments for various funds under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
To assist communities that have faced challenges accessing federal funding, EPA offers support through its Water Technical Assistance program. This program aids disadvantaged communities in identifying their needs and applying for necessary funding. These efforts align with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40% of certain federal investments benefit marginalized communities.
For further details on state allocations and other related projects funded by this initiative, interested parties can visit various EPA websites dedicated to clean and drinking water programs.
