The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has announced an investment of over $267 million in grants aimed at enhancing the state’s water infrastructure. This funding will assist various local governments and water systems, ensuring the protection of public health and the environment.
Among the projects receiving support are new storm sewers and green infrastructure initiatives in Oakland County, lead service line replacements in Marquette, and water main upgrades in South Haven. Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the importance of clean, safe water for all residents, stating, “Every Michigander deserves access to clean, safe water. As our state’s most precious natural resource, we must do more to safeguard it.”
Since taking office, Governor Whitmer has prioritized water infrastructure improvements, overseeing the replacement of tens of thousands of lead pipes and upgrades to sewer systems to mitigate flooding. The recent grants will impact communities statewide, from West and Southeast Michigan to the Upper Peninsula.
With 70% of Michiganders relying on over 1,000 community wastewater systems, these funds will address aging infrastructure and emerging challenges, such as PFAS contamination. The MI Clean Water Plan, which includes resources from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), aims to support local systems in ensuring safe drinking water and environmental protection.
Phil Roos, EGLE director, stated, “Investing in local water infrastructure is not just about updating systems; it’s about revitalizing communities and ensuring residents have access to clean water.” The plan’s substantial investment is set to assist numerous communities, from rural areas in the Upper Peninsula to urban centers, in replacing lead lines and enhancing water mains.
Governor Whitmer, alongside the Michigan Legislature and the Biden-Harris Administration, has increased funding for aging water infrastructure. Since her tenure began, Michigan has invested over $4 billion to improve drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater facilities, supporting more than 57,000 jobs in the process.
