America’s water and wastewater systems require an estimated $1 trillion in investment to address decades of neglected maintenance and upgrades. However, many communities lack the necessary funding, organization, or technical expertise to begin addressing these issues.
To tackle this, Veolia North America, the largest private water service operator in the U.S., is partnering with the Water Finance Exchange (WFX), a reputable nonprofit dedicated to enhancing America’s water infrastructure, to assist small and disadvantaged communities in improving their water and wastewater systems.
As a founding member of the WFX Water Roundtable, Veolia will leverage its expertise and resources to help communities solve complex water challenges, particularly in rural and underserved areas that typically have the least resources but the greatest needs.
WFX has successfully supported communities in Texas, Idaho, Illinois, and other states in developing innovative strategies for water improvements, establishing effective governance structures, accessing new funding streams, creating robust capital programs, and managing construction efforts—the essential behind-the-scenes work required to revitalize water systems.
With Veolia’s backing, the WFX Water Roundtable will assist communities in identifying and prioritizing water projects, assessing their technical and financial capabilities, exploring innovative funding options, and initiating the construction of the vital infrastructure their residents deserve.
During a recent WFX workshop in western Tennessee, Veolia collaborated with regional water sector leaders and local, state, and federal officials to share strategies and experiences on how communities secured the technical assistance, funding tools, and workforce development needed to enhance water services for their populations.
Karine Rougé, Chief Executive Officer of Municipal Water at Veolia North America, stated, “Every individual deserves access to high-quality water and sanitation services, regardless of their location or community resources. The extensive experience and expertise of Veolia North America’s thousands of employees are invaluable in upgrading water infrastructure. We are eager to collaborate in overcoming the funding, implementation, and operational challenges that prevent America from achieving water equity for all.”
Source: Veolia
