Value Of Water Campaign Calls For Cross-Sector Partnerships, Sustained Infrastructure Investment Following Infrastructure Week 2026

Economic findings underscore that water infrastructure is foundational to America’s economy, public health, and resilience

The Value of Water Campaign joined United for Infrastructure and organizations across the country during Infrastructure Week 2026 to call on Congress and leaders at every level to continue investing in America’s infrastructure — with water infrastructure serving as a critical foundation for economic growth, public health, and community resilience.

As a member of United for Infrastructure’s Steering Committee, the Value of Water Campaign urges policymakers, community and business leaders, and utilities, to work together to advance federal investments and ensure communities can continue modernizing essential water systems.

“As Congress looks ahead to the reauthorization of key federal water programs, we must maintain the momentum of recent investments,” said Scott Berry, US Water Alliance Senior Advisor on Policy and External Affairs. “Water infrastructure is essential to our nation’s economic competitiveness, public health, and long-term resilience. Continued, predictable funding is critical for communities across the country.”

Amidst Infrastructure Week, the Value of Water Campaign partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National League of Cities to host the “Water Investment & the Nation’s Economic Future Roundtable,” which brought together water utility associations, business stakeholders, non-profit organizations, and Congressional staff. During the roundtable event, water leaders stressed the importance of sustained federal funding for water infrastructure programs, especially as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is set to expire this year.

Federal financing programs such as the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds have helped communities across the United States access affordable financing for critical infrastructure upgrades that keep water flowing, protect homes and businesses from flooding, and safeguard rivers, lakes, and streams.

The Campaign’s 2025 report, The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure, demonstrates the far-reaching economic returns of water investment. The report found that every $1M invested in water infrastructure generates approximately 10 jobs, $2.5M in economic output, and nearly $1.4M in GDP. The analysis also estimates that the nation must invest roughly $3.4T over the next 20 years to repair and modernize drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems nationwide.

The Value of Water Campaign is a coalition of leading organizations from across the US water sector working to educate and inspire Americans about how our water is essential, invaluable, and in need of investment.