PHILADELPHIA, PA, Oct. 20, 2009 -- In a move that stands to create jobs, boost the local economy, and protect human health and the environment for the people in the District of Columbia, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today it has awarded more than $38.9 million to improve aging water infrastructure in the District. This new infusion of money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will help the District Department of the Environment, and DC Water and Sewer Authority finance water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment.
"This funding will support green infrastructure projects in the District of Columbia, serving to protect the environment, and creating job opportunities," said William C. Early, acting administrator for EPA's mid-Atlantic region.
EPA has awarded $14,572,958 to the District Department of the Environment for sustainable clean water projects. The DC Water and Sewer Authority is receiving $24,360,442 in funding for projects to improve the District's drinking water distribution system, and build sustainable infrastructure to control stormwater runoff.
"The District is extremely grateful for EPA's generous support, and looks forward to putting these funds to good use by preserving and creating jobs in the city," said District of Columbia Mayor Adrian M. Fenty. "These funds will go a long way to continue our efforts to make the nation's capital a green city and national leader in sustainable development."
Many of the clean water projects will aid in the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and watershed by helping to reduce excess nutrients.
An unprecedented $6 billion will be awarded to fund water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the country under the Recovery Act in the form of low- interest loans, principal forgiveness and grants. At least 20 percent of the funds provided under the Recovery Act are to be used for green infrastructure, water and energy efficiency improvements and other environmentally innovative projects. President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) on February 17, 2009 and has directed that the Recovery Act be implemented with unprecedented transparency and accountability. To that end, the American people can see how every dollar is being invested at www.recovery.gov
Information on EPA's implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 in the District of Columbia, visit http://recovery.dc.gov/recovery/site/default.asp
###
