The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant financial commitment to improve water infrastructure in northern Utah. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin revealed that the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District will receive a $110 million loan under the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA). This initiative is part of the EPA's "Powering the Great American Comeback," aimed at safeguarding public health and promoting economic growth.
Administrator Zeldin emphasized the importance of this project, stating, "Providing clean water to all Americans is part of EPA’s core mission and this WIFIA loan will help us achieve this goal not only for Utah residents today, but also for future generations."
The loan will facilitate various upgrades to enhance water supply reliability in five counties, benefiting over 20% of Utah's population. The planned projects include expanding drinking water treatment plants, replacing storage tanks, constructing transmission lines, developing an aquifer storage recovery well, and establishing water reuse facilities.
Scott Paxman, General Manager and CEO of Weber Basin Water Conservancy District, expressed gratitude for the support: “This loan enables Weber Basin Water Conservancy District to uphold our commitment to providing safe, reliable water to a growing population."
Approximately 700,000 residents are expected to benefit from these improvements. The loan is part of a larger master agreement involving $285 million in WIFIA financing dedicated to advancing critical water infrastructure projects. The district anticipates saving around $19 million over the duration of the loan due to its favorable terms.
Since its inception in 2018, EPA's WIFIA program has provided over $21 billion in financing for numerous infrastructure projects across the country. These initiatives have strengthened drinking water systems while creating substantial employment opportunities.
The WIFIA program was established by Congress in 2014 as a federal initiative managed by EPA. It provides long-term credit assistance for significant regional and national projects. Currently entering its eighth selection round for financing applications, EPA offers substantial funding opportunities through both WIFIA and SWIFIA programs.
