Report: State Needs $2 Billion Water Infrastructure Investment Now

Indiana’s water utilities have immediate infrastructure needs totaling more than $2.3 billion.

The Indiana Finance Authority surveyed utilities serving around 75 percent of Indiana’s population. It determined these water infrastructure systems need $2.3 billion in new investments for things like water treatment plants, distribution pipes and fire hydrants right now. It prioritized replacing old water service lines, some of which date back to the late 1800s.

After that initial investment, utilities surveyed say they still need $815 million annually to cover basic upgrades and replacement costs.

The General Assembly passed a bill in March 2016 to mandate the report.

The Indiana Finance Authority is also recommending a new water infrastructure funding program.

The report says if Indiana addresses its water infrastructure problems now “the cost of maintaining the system will not cause societal or economic disruption.”