February 2026 Vol. 81 No. 2

Learn how the Vermeer MTR516 microtrencher supports faster, cleaner fiber installation with deeper cuts, improved spoil control and enhanced jobsite efficiency through microtrenching.

Despite a powerful winter storm disrupting travel nationwide, the 2026 Underground Infrastructure Conference in San Antonio delivered strong attendance, packed sessions and major industry honors.

UI’s 29th Annual Municipal Sewer/Water Infrastructure Forecast projects $26.9 billion in 2026 spending as federal Infrastructure Bill funding winds down and cities continue aggressive project design and release plans.

Caribbean nations including the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Jamaica are planning major water and wastewater infrastructure investments to address aging systems, drought pressures and growing potable water demand.

Permitting reform is gaining momentum after the House advanced the SPEED Act and PERMIT Act, while EPA proposes updates to Clean Water Act Section 401 — leaving the Senate as the next major hurdle for changes affecting pipeline, broadband and water infrastructure projects.

Advanced technologies including AI, digital twins, AMI and GIS are helping utilities reduce non-revenue water, improve leak detection and optimize hydraulic efficiency, according to a Xylem Vue report on water technology trends.

Robert Carpenter, Editor-in-Chief of Underground Infrastructure, was inducted into the HDD Hall of Fame at UIC 2026 in San Antonio, honoring decades of leadership and influence in the HDD industry.

Two House-passed permitting reform bills targeting NEPA reviews and Clean Water Act pipeline approvals now face a pivotal test in the Senate, where bipartisan negotiations could determine the future of federal infrastructure and energy project timelines.

Azuria expands pipe manufacturing and acquires Caliagua, Komatsu and Volvo advance equipment investments, PPI marks 75 years, WSSC Water earns another AAA rating and EnviroVac announces a strategic merger in this month’s Business News roundup.

Executive appointments, leadership promotions and an industry remembrance highlight this month’s Business People column, featuring updates from ZamCo Directional Drilling, Volvo CE, Hyundai Construction Equipment, Oatey and the passing of Darby Equipment Company CEO Bob Darby.

From next-gen hydrovac trucks and midsize excavators to MASH-tested work-zone barriers and field-friendly undercarriage solutions, our latest new products spotlight highlights equipment innovations designed to improve underground utility productivity, safety and uptime.

New rehab technologies are pushing pipeline inspection and trenchless repair forward. In this month’s Rehab News, Aries Industries introduces a new lateral inspection system, while Vortex Companies advances CIPP liner technology and launches a new family of infrastructure grouts.

Cold weather can significantly affect injection grouting performance. This NASSCO Tech Tips feature highlights key considerations for grout selection, curing times, material storage and equipment care when rehabilitating below-grade wastewater structures in freezing conditions.