North Carolina is booming. People and businesses keep flocking to the state, and while that's exciting, it also means our water infrastructure is facing some big hurdles—and plenty of chances for new ideas and teamwork. This year’s Emerging Issues Forum, held in Morehead City, Winston-Salem, and Asheville, brought together leaders from government, education, and nonprofits to chat about how population growth is pushing our aging water systems to the limit, and what we can do about it.
Currently, North Carolina has about 11.2 million people, and that number is expected to hit nearly 14 million by 2050. That’s a lot of folks needing safe, reliable water. Just last year, we welcomed an average of 400 new residents each day. These newcomers—and the businesses they bring with them—need homes, energy, transportation, broadband, and most importantly, water.
But our water systems are getting old. The American Society of Civil Engineers recently gave North Carolina’s drinking water a grade of C-plus, stormwater a C-minus, and dams and wastewater a D-minus. Severe storms—like Hurricane Helene, Matthew, and Florence—have battered wells and water systems, sometimes leaving communities without clean water. Plus, with life sciences companies and data centers moving in, our infrastructure is feeling even more pressure.
Aging Infrastructure: Even though we’re investing more, experts say North Carolina needs $20 billion for drinking water upgrades and $21 billion for wastewater improvements in the coming decades. Without big action, the state’s economy and public health could suffer.
New Contaminants: Chemicals like PFAS are popping up as threats to water quality. Tackling these issues will cost billions more, adding to the financial strain on water systems and customers.
Resiliency: Storms have caused lasting damage to water and wastewater systems. Making infrastructure more resilient is crucial for both cities and rural communities.
Workforce Crisis: As experienced water professionals retire, there aren’t enough qualified workers stepping up to maintain and improve our systems. Raising awareness and offering educational programs is important for attracting new talent.
Water needs vary across North Carolina. Some places, like Wake County and Charlotte, are booming—growing by more than 65 residents a day. Meanwhile, 41% of municipalities are losing population, especially in the east and west. Because growth is uneven, infrastructure solutions can’t be one-size-fits-all—they need to fit local realities.
Many small towns struggle to keep their water systems running as people move away. Some experts suggest regionalizing water authorities so communities can pool resources and expertise. That way, water stays safe and affordable for everyone.
Good planning is key. Local leaders are tying water infrastructure to zoning and long-term development plans, making sure capacity matches growth and resilience strategies. This big-picture thinking helps towns like Nags Head deal with seasonal population spikes, sea level rise, and stormwater management.
Other places, like Maysville, are hiring people who show potential to learn, rather than just focusing on certifications. Colleges are also getting involved, introducing students to careers in water and wastewater management.
Protecting rivers is vital. The Cape Fear River basin, for instance, provides drinking water to one in five North Carolinians. Keeping water clean isn’t just about investing in treatment plants—it also means cutting down stormwater runoff at the source. Residents can help out by installing rain gardens, infiltration trenches, and rain barrels. Every yard and business makes a difference.
“We’ve got to invest in our neighborhoods, invest in our communities,” said Jacksonville Stormwater Manager Pat Donovan-Brandenburg. “Reduce the stormwater that you’re creating individually off your own property, and collectively, we will make a difference.”
North Carolina’s water infrastructure challenges might be tough, but they’re not impossible. With smart planning, regional cooperation, workforce development, and community involvement, the state can make sure growth is sustainable—and that everyone, whether new or longtime residents, has clean, safe water.
Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to statewide newsletters, attend local forums, and be part of the solution as North Carolina works toward a resilient water future.
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Posted on 03/23/2026 at 07:55 AM
