Sharyland Water Supply Corp. receives $17 million WIFIA loan to upgrade water infrastructure in Texas

(UI) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $17 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to the Sharyland Water Supply Corporation in southeastern Texas. EPA’s loan will support critical water infrastructure updates to ensure reliable delivery of safe drinking water to local residents.

The Sharyland Water Supply Corporation’s Water System Infrastructure Improvements Project will improve the reliability of their existing system. Improving the drinking water treatment plant will help minimize unnecessary water loss. Additionally, the project will upgrade several miles of water mains during ongoing road-widening work. By coordinating this work, the community will benefit from multi-sector infrastructure upgrades while limiting disruptions to residents.

"This funding is a significant step forward in our commitment to providing top-notch water services to our community,” said Sharyland Water Supply Corporation General Manager Carlos R. Lima. “This funding will not only strengthen our infrastructure but also allows us to minimize the financial impact on our valued members. Together we are ensuring a sustainable and resilient water supply for generations to come. "

WIFIA financing will allow the corporation to keep water rates affordable for its customers, including many living in communities with environmental justice concerns, while implementing necessary water infrastructure improvements. EPA estimates Sharyland Water Supply Corporation will save $5 million with EPA’s WIFIA loan while project construction and operation will create almost 200 jobs.

Since its creation, EPA’s WIFIA program has announced nearly $20 billion in financing to support over $43 billion in water infrastructure projects that are strengthening drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure while creating over 140,000 jobs.

“With smart investments through EPA’s WIFIA loan program, Sharyland Water Supply Corporation is upgrading water infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable water service for nearly 90,000 people in southeastern Texas,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “Water infrastructure is central to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda. Through EPA’s WIFIA program and $50 billion under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Agency is investing in drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater upgrades to benefit communities across the country.”

 

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