Michigan is directing roughly $1.9 billion later this year and throughout 2023 to local water systems through Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds.
The one-time federal influx provided through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Infrastructure Investment Jobs Act (IIJA) was authorized recently with the passage of Michigan's Public Act 53. It allocates $4.7B in total infrastructure funding, including the $1.9 billion for water system improvements administered by Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
This influx of one-time federal funding complements the $90 million to $100 million provided annually by EPA through two existing revolving funds. The goal is to assist communities in addressing critical infrastructure improvements that will continue to protect the environment and public health.
Information on available funding and how communities may apply is included in EGLE’s Water Infrastructure Investments overview.
More than $2.8 billion has been requested by communities in 2022 alone for water infrastructure funding — more than triple previous years' requests.
Still, the funding pales in comparison to the state's needs. Michigan reportedly has an $800 million annual gap in water and sewer infrastructure needs, compiled from decades of deferred maintenance and lack of knowledge on the condition of our water-related assets' according to the state's 21st Century Infrastructure Report.
To access funding provided through IIJA, ARPA or regular federal funding, EGLE encourages communities to submit an Intent to Apply (ITA) form by Nov. 1. Applications are encouraged as soon as communities are ready, no need to wait for the deadline.
Learn more about how to apply through some of the recorded sessions from the Great Lakes Water Infrastructure Conference.
These ITA forms can be found on the program websites that will administer the funds as detailed below:
- The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund: Federal dollars administered by EGLE helping local communities with projects including lead water service line replacement, treatment plant upgrades and distribution system improvements among others. Some 345 projects have received $1.5 billion since 1998.
- The Clean Water State Revolving Fund: Federal money administered by EGLE for community projects including wastewater treatment upgrades and elimination of combined sewer system overflows, pumping station improvements, and non-point source pollution projects to reduce nutrient and contaminant runoff to waterways. Some $5.4 billion has financed 642 projects since 1988.
Michigan has a unique role amid the world’s greatest freshwater ecosystem, and the infrastructure dollars will help protect and enhance Great Lakes waters.
“The new federal assistance is a great start toward helping communities address backlogged water system needs,” said Liesl Clark, EGLE director. “But this is a marathon, not a sprint. Michigan EGLE and our partners are committed to partnering with our communities in the coming years to ensure that Michiganders’ health and their environment have the best protections possible.”
