BOISE, IDAHO (November 1, 2023) – A new report identifies dozens of water infrastructure projects in Idaho that are at risk of being delayed or canceled if Congress approves the House FY24 appropriations bill. The American Business Water Coalition (ABWC) today released the findings of a study that illustrates the risks to thriving business, job creation and local economic growth by identifying the specific water infrastructure projects and regions that will be impacted should the FY24 House Interior-Environment Appropriations bill and its historic cuts to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) be signed into law.
Leading examples of at-risk water infrastructure projects that would support the local economy in key regions across Idaho include:
1. Twin Falls’ construction of a south well, backup power and additional storage
2. Pocatello’s installation of gravity and pressure sewer lines
3. Rexburg’s construction of gravity lines and replacement of current piping
4. Ammon’s replacement of water lines and fire hydrants, and repairs to existing well house
5. Chubbuck’s construction of an additional well and completion of a lead service line inventory
To view all of the projects at risk in Idaho, please visit businesswatercoalition.com/reports/idaho for the report in its entirety.
“Should the House Appropriations bill pass, including its draconian funding cuts to SRF programs, we would see a disastrous effect on water infrastructure funding that will trickle down to impact the economic health of local Idaho communities,” said Mae Stevens, chief executive officer of ABWC. “Our new report highlights the important water projects at great risk in Idaho. Water-related crises are wreaking havoc on a daily basis across the country. Congress must fully fund our nation’s water infrastructure, and not pinch pennies on programs that every American and the entire economy rely on.”
It is estimated that restoring the country’s water systems to meet the needs of the population will cost at least $1 trillion over the next 25 years. Without a dramatic increase in federal investment, every business and community in America is at risk.
