New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo announced he is seeking a $2 billion investment over a 5-year period to begin upgrading the US's oldest water pipes and sewer systems. According to state experts, a higher investment of up $80 billion is actually required to replace crumbling water mains, modernize sewer systems and remove lead pipes.
New York counties are reporting continuous problems that require repair including frequent line breaks, water quality concerns, and an estimated 20 percent leakage of treated water through New York City’s municipal pipes.
New York counties are reporting continuous problems that require repair including frequent line breaks, water quality concerns, and an estimated 20 percent leakage of treated water through New York City’s municipal pipes.
Hearings on Cuomo's budget proposal are planned with a vote expected before April 1. While some aspects of his proposal face challenges, the funding for this project is already winning supporters in both parties and has a high probability of passing.
Across the US, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates the total cost of maintaining, replacing, upgrading and expanding the nation's sewer and drinking water systems at $1 trillion over 20 years.