Birmingham secures $171M EPA loan for safe drinking water infrastructure
In an unprecedented move, Birmingham has been granted a $171 million loan under the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Commenting on the news, U.S. Representative Terri A. Sewell stated, “This is great news for the residents of Birmingham. Not only will this loan improve the city’s water supply and ensure safe drinking water, but it will save the city money and create more than a thousand jobs.“
Long Acronym, Important Program
The WIFIA, while bearing an unwieldy acronym, stands as a major federal loan program orchestrated by the EPA. Its primary focus is on fostering investments towards the nation’s water infrastructure, thereby upscaling clean water accessibility and providing communities with cost-saving opportunities.
The grant provided to Birmingham is a vital step forward as it brings safe drinking water to over 770,000 residents of the metro area.
A Timely Loan for Alabama
This loan marks a first for Alabama, with an estimated $50 million to be saved by Birmingham Water Works as a result of financing with the WIFIA loan.
The funds will be directed towards two key projects: the Lake Purdy Dam improvements and replacing lead service lines, an act that will effectively reduce the risk of lead exposure to the community.
The EPA estimates that the construction and operation of these projects will generate approximately 1,200 jobs.
An Essential Move Towards Improved Water Infrastructure
Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle, who was in Birmingham to announce the loan, highlighted its significance, saying “Water is essential to healthy, thriving communities. That’s why EPA’s $171 million low-interest loan is so important for the residents and businesses in Birmingham. It will help upgrade aging water infrastructure, including reducing water main breaks and removing legacy lead pipes, while reducing project costs.“
Birmingham Welcomes The Loan Program
This recent financial boost has been commended by several key players and residents of Birmingham, with many voicing their approval on social media platforms.
As the loan gets utilized, the impact on Birmingham’s water infrastructure will be closely monitored. It is anticipated that this initiative will not only improve the quality of drinking water for its residents but also bolster job creation in the area. At a time when the importance of clean and safe water is increasingly highlighted, the EPA’s loan to Birmingham is a major step in the right direction.