The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin has announced a $110 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District in northern Utah. The funding aligns with the EPA’s “Powering the Great American Comeback” initiative, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to protecting human health, safeguarding the environment, and stimulating economic growth through responsible policy and investment.
The loan will enhance drinking water reliability across five counties, benefiting over 20% of Utah’s population. Additionally, the project is expected to generate local jobs, contributing to regional economic development.
“Providing clean water to all Americans is at the heart of EPA’s mission, and this WIFIA loan ensures that Utah residents—both today and in the future—have access to safe, reliable drinking water,” said Administrator Zeldin. “Beyond strengthening water security in this drought-prone region, this investment will also create jobs and drive economic prosperity.”
The WIFIA loan will fund critical infrastructure expansions and upgrades to increase water supply and promote water reuse. Key projects include:
- Expanding two drinking water treatment plants
- Replacing outdated water storage tanks
- Constructing new transmission lines
- Developing an aquifer storage recovery well
- Establishing advanced water reuse facilities
These improvements will bolster Utah’s water resilience, ensuring a sustainable and secure water supply for communities in the face of ongoing drought challenges.