blog

North Carolina’s Big Investment: $472 Million for Cleaner, Stronger Water Systems

What This Huge Funding Means for Communities Across the State

North Carolina has announced a significant investment of more than $472 million to address water infrastructure challenges across the state. This funding will assist towns and cities in upgrading both drinking water and wastewater systems, ensuring clean and reliable water access for all residents.

The initiative goes beyond repairing outdated pipes. It encompasses 145 projects in 66 counties, with objectives that include providing clean water, strengthening systems to withstand storms, and enabling communities to recover swiftly from disasters. Governor Josh Stein emphasized the importance of these upgrades, referencing past events such as Hurricane Helene, when thousands lost access to clean water: "After Hurricane Helene, tens of thousands of North Carolinians were without access to clean and reliable water for weeks. Upgrading our state’s aging water infrastructure must be a priority." Clean water remains an essential everyday need.

The allocated funds will allow local governments to modernize pipes and treatment plants, reinforce systems against severe weather, eliminate harmful chemicals like PFAS, and replace aging lead pipes. These are substantial improvements aimed at safeguarding public health and safety.

Key projects receiving funding include:

• Cape Fear Public Utility Authority: $17.8 million for improvements at the Southside Wastewater Treatment Plant.

• City of Goldsboro: $33 million to remediate water quality and remove PFAS contaminants.

• Town of Newland: $10 million to enhance its drinking water system in response to Hurricane Helene.

• Town of Forest City: $5 million for sewer system upgrades to prevent failures during storms.

The funding is sourced from a combination of state and federal programs, including low-interest loans, grants, and special funds established after events such as Hurricane Helene. Priority has been given to smaller towns and communities most affected by recent weather events to ensure resources are allocated where they are needed most.

North Carolina received 198 requests totaling nearly $1.9 billion in funding. While not all requests were approved, the selection focused on the most urgent and impactful projects. The official list was finalized on February 18, and additional details can be found on the DEQ website.

This substantial investment is designed to guarantee that every North Carolinian can rely on the safety and quality of their water supply. The state’s commitment addresses concerns related to storms, aging infrastructure, and water contamination, preparing communities for future challenges and supporting safer water for years to come.