Indiana Officials Address Potential Water Crisis

The Associated Press reports Indiana officials are trying to prevent a water crisis while both supply and infrastructure are currently insufficient for future needs. AP reports via The Journal Gazette that a 2016 survey found that Indiana utilities have an immediate need for $2.26 billion to replace water meters, hydrants, water mains, treatment plants, wells and other physical infrastructure. According to each system, the estimate is beyond the capacity of the utilities and customers to finance without the help of a new funding program, AP reports via The Journal Gazette.

According to AP News and The Journal Gazette, discussions of a water crisis began in 2014 when the Indiana Chamber of Commerce issued a report calling for the development of a water resource plan to improve the management and conservation of Indiana's water supply.

To manage the state's water resources and infrastructure, Gov. Eric Holcomb is looking to create a multi-agency working group to develop different strategies. He's also doing so to support development of asset management plans for high-need water and wastewater utilities, AP reports via The Journal Gazette.

The Indiana Finance Authority has applied for a Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan of $436 million, as one of 12 potential borrowers, and wants to expand its Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs and fund dozens of other projects across the state.

More: AP News

Photo credit: Shutterstock