The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) has announced the issuance of over $571 million in water infrastructure loans to local governments and water districts for the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2023.
These low-interest loans fund wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water projects, with more than $53 million in loan forgiveness granted to those adhering to loan rules.
In total, over $803 million in low-interest loans were issued in fiscal year 2023, alongside $54 million in funding for lead service line replacement. The efforts aim to improve water infrastructure, create jobs, and ensure clean water access for all communities in Illinois.
"Clean water is a right—not a privilege. And here in Illinois, we are utilizing every resource at our disposal to ensure our communities have the modernized and safe water infrastructure they deserve," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Thanks to my administration's bipartisan Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan, we've increased state funding for the Illinois EPA's Water Pollution Control Loan Program and Public Water Supply Loan Program—providing low-interest loans for wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water projects, all while creating and supporting good-paying jobs. Here's to a cleaner and more sustainable future for all Illinoisans—no matter their zip code."
"In Illinois, we are working to ensure families and communities have access to clean water because it is a matter of justice," said Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. "With these investments from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, we will continue to build on sustainable solutions that address the critical needs of Illinoisans, so they have the resources to live and be well in every corner of our state."
"The Illinois EPA's robust State Revolving Fund allows us to provide communities with the essential funding needed to upgrade, repair, or replace aging water infrastructure," said Director John J. Kim. "This funding represents clean drinking water for Illinois residents, technology to reduce environmental impacts from stormwater and wastewater, and the creation of good paying local jobs."
