New national report estimates $91B water infrastructure investment gap in 2024

(Washington, D.C. – May 13, 2024) – Infrastructure Week 2024 serves as a strong reminder that the need for continued investment in clean water infrastructure persists, despite strides that have been made in federal funding for the water sector. The National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) echoes the call for increased federal investment as the water sector continues to confront a complex set of regulatory and ratepayer affordability issues.

"The passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA) was a critical first step toward closing the funding gap for water infrastructure," said Adam Krantz, NACWA CEO. "But utilities and municipalities across the nation face myriad challenges—from climate change to population shifts and from emerging contaminants like PFAS to a growing number of low-income households struggling to pay their rising water bills.  These challenges are once again widening the water funding gap and NACWA is committed to advocating for increased federal funding. We look forward to continuing our work with Congress to find the appropriate local/state/federal partnership to address the clean water funding gap.”

Bridging the Gap: The Power of Investment in Water, a report released today by the Value of Water Campaign and the American Society of Civil Engineers, notes that continued investment at IIJA levels could reduce the investment gap by $125 billion in the next two decades. That amount would, if it were to become a reality, be the equivalent to:

• Replacing all lead service lines in the United States twofold.
• Fully funding a permanent federal customer assistance program at the estimated need of $5 billion annually for 25 years; and
• Repairing or replacing more than 25 percent of the nation’s 2 million aging water mains.

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ABOUT NACWA

For over 50 years, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) has been the nation’s recognized leader in legislative, regulatory, legal, and communications advocacy on the full spectrum of clean water issues. NACWA represents public wastewater and stormwater agencies of all sizes nationwide. Our unique and growing network strengthens the advocacy voice for the public clean water sector and helps advance policies to provide affordable and sustainable clean water for all. Our vision is to advance sustainable and responsible policy initiatives that help to shape a strong and sustainable clean water future. For more information, visit us at www.nacwa.org.

Media Contact:
Rahkia Nance | NACWA Communications Director
(202) 533-1809, rnance@nacwa.org