Report: Virginia, U.S., Requires More Investments in Water Infrastructure
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
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- Recent reports urge Virginia and the U.S. to invest in water infrastructure, as continued investments under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act could significantly reduce service disruptions and save water-reliant businesses 46% over 20 years.
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- The U.S. Water Alliance predicts a $2.6 trillion investment gap for water by 2043, but this could be reduced by $125 billion if investments are maintained at current levels; this would also preserve 200,000 jobs and save households nearly $7,000 over 20 years.
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- Investing in water infrastructure has bipartisan support according to the Value of Water Index, with many voters willing to accept moderate rate increases to support local utility projects that improve water accessibility and community health.
Urgent Need for Water Infrastructure Investment in U.S. and Virginia
A recent report by U.S. Water Alliance highlights the pressing need for the investment in water infrastructure across Virginia and the U.S.
The report investigates two possible scenarios. In one, the U.S. continues its current level of investment under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). In the other, funding returns to its pre-IIJA levels. The American Society of Civil Engineers recently rated Virginia's infrastructure a C+.
Christy Harowski, U.S. Water Alliance's Value of Water campaign director, rejects the idea of reverting to previous spending rates. She forecasts a $2.6 trillion investment gap by 2043 if spending rates decrease. However, maintaining IIJA spending levels could shrink this gap by $125 billion.
Harowski's predictions stem from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Needs Survey. The report reveals a national water infrastructure investment gap of $91 billion, ballooning unless IIJA-level funding persists. Continual investment can yield long-term benefits, like preserving 200,000 jobs and potentially saving households nearly $7,000 over 20 years.
Funding water infrastructure is a challenge due to its invisible nature. Most funding is local or state-based, but federal proactive action is crucial, especially extending the IIJA past its 2026 expiration. Harowski emphasizes that past disinvestment has resulted in deteriorating infrastructure.
"Our water infrastructure is roughly a century old, and in some places, even older. Due to its age, there's an increase in leaks and breaks, necessitating urgent repair and replacement," she said.
Investment in water infrastructure holds high importance among voters. According to the Value of Water Index poll, there exists broad bipartisan support for retaining IIJA’s investments. The majority of voters would even agree to moderate rate increases for utility projects to improve water accessibility and community health.
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