West Virginia invests $145M to boost water and wastewater infrastructure

The Facts -

West Virginia Unveils Significant Investment in Water Infrastructure

West Virginia is set to make a substantial leap forward in its effort to improve water and wastewater systems, as Governor Patrick Morrisey reveals an additional $145 million funding commitment for the upcoming year. This initiative is expected to propel state utility projects past the remarkable benchmark of $1 billion, setting a new precedent for infrastructure development in the region.

The governor's announcement in Beckley introduced the "Clean, Clear Water Strategy," a strategic plan designed to expedite project developments and offer critical assistance to communities facing significant challenges.

“We are about taking action to help people,” Governor Morrisey stated. “We went into these communities, listened to the problems people are facing, and now we are acting. We’re putting real resources behind fixing West Virginia’s water infrastructure and making sure that money produces results.”

Since the start of Morrisey's term 19 months ago, the state has invested over $174 million in grants and low-interest loans, catalyzing $552 million in related projects through July. The newly allocated $145 million is anticipated to attract further investments from federal, local, and private entities, thereby surpassing the $1 billion mark in water infrastructure projects.

As part of the "Clean, Clear Water Strategy," collaborations have been established with Marshall University, West Virginia University, and the state's 11 Regional Planning and Development Councils. These organizations will offer essential technical support and grant-writing assistance to small water systems that are often under-resourced and struggle to obtain necessary funding.

The state aims to streamline project timelines by requiring a 60-day review period for projects under binding commitments, which will be monitored via a new public dashboard. Emphasis will be placed on funding decisions for communities under boil-water advisories, experiencing systemic failures, health risks, or severe economic challenges.

The administration also plans to collaborate with the state Legislature to reform utility laws, minimize bureaucratic procedures, and help struggling utilities share resources. Progress will be made transparent to the public through metrics on water line construction or repair, upgrades to treatment facilities, and enhancements in service connections.

“Marshall, WVU, and our 11 Regional Planning and Development Councils are going to bring their expertise to bear for communities that need it most,” Governor Morrisey remarked. “They will help small water systems compete for funding, navigate complicated requirements, and get projects moving. At the same time, we’re going to cut through red tape when projects get stuck and make sure West Virginians can see the results.”

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