Water and Wastewater
Infrastructure Needs

Briefing Paper

Background:

A 2003 study by the Indiana Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations states that between $12.4 and $13.9 billion will be needed for improvements and upgrades to Indiana’s wastewater and drinking water infrastructure, including:

• Combined sewer overflows
• Wastewater conveyance and treatment
• Failed septic system repairs
• Stormwater management
• Drinking water production, treatment and distribution facilities

This estimate is 35 to 53 percent higher than the USEPA’s previous estimate. Indiana governments have historically spent about $253 million annually (in 2000 dollars) on these programs, and estimates show that Indiana governments would need to invest between $620 million and $695 million annually over the next 20 years. That is an increase of between 245 and 275 percent.

Current funding sources are significantly challenged to meet the needs of expanding and improving this infrastructure.

Action: Discuss the need for addressing long-term wastewater and water infrastructure needs. Ask legislators to add this discussion to the EQSC 2007 agenda and stress the importance of funding for the state revolving fund and water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

For more information:

Indiana Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, January 2003 report, Financial Needs for Wastewater and Water Infrastructure Needs in Indiana

• Executive Summary
• Complete report

ACEC Briefing to the EQSC, October 30, 2006