New Allocation of $62 Million in Federal Funds for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Puerto Rico

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $62,283,000 to Puerto Rico essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades across the nation through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). Thanks to a $6 billion boost from Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure. 

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s historic infrastructure investments in America, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.” 

“EPA is putting the funding where the priorities are by working with our state partners to deliver clean water to communities, protect public health, and advance environmental justice across Puerto Rico and the nation.” said U.S. EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “This funding is part of the once-in-a lifetime investments we are making to transform infrastructure under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.” 

“As a government we will continue to rebuild our drinking water infrastructure to make it a stronger and more resilient one. The support that Puerto Rico is receiving from the federal government through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Drinking Water Stater Resolving Fund is fundamental to our most disadvantaged communities and will result in a better quality of life for all. On behalf of all the American Citizens living in Puerto Rico we thank the Biden-Harris administration and will continue working with the EPA and the federal government for the well-being of all the residents in the Island”, said the Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi. 

“I welcome this new allocation of $62.2 million in federal resources from the Bipartisan  Infrastructure Law to improve water infrastructure in Puerto Rico. In the aftermath of Hurricane  Maria, we saw the need to strengthen such infrastructure to prevent water service  interruptions and ensure our communities have access to drinking water at all times,” said  Congresswoman Jenniffer González Colón.

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