Legislature Passes Dykema, Eldridge Water Infrastructure Legislation

From the office of Representative Carolyn Dykema

Representative Carolyn Dykema and Senator James Eldridge’s Bill, An Act improving drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, passed the state legislature in the early hours this morning. Highlights of the bill include $50 million in additional annual loan funding for local water infrastructure projects, the creation of a Water Infrastructure Advisory Board to inform the legislature of future infrastructure concerns, the establishment of incentives for environmentally appropriate infrastructure, and funding for a Water Technology Innovation Trust to foster water innovation in the Commonwealth.

“It is becoming increasingly clear that the protection and management of our water resources is critical to our communities,” said Rep. Dykema. “This bill takes a significant step toward partnering with our cities and towns to better manage our water and wastewater systems while also preparing for long-term maintenance and investment.”
The bill also establishes a Water Infrastructure Advisory Board which will provide ongoing recommendations relative to water infrastructure concerns, keeping this often overlooked issue on the legislature’s radar.
The water infrastructure legislation also includes the following provisions:
· Allocates $3 million in funding for planning and technical assistance grants, including green infrastructure opportunities

· Adds $50 million annually to the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program for drinking water, wastewater and storm water facilities and improvements

· Creates new opportunities for lower and no-interest loans for municipalities through the SRF program

· Creates a new principal forgiveness/grant program for certain environmental projects

· Allows the state to provide a 1:1 financial match for connection costs to regional water or wastewater systems, including the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority

· Requires the state to publish guidelines on best management practices in water infrastructure management so that municipalities will get the greatest value for their infrastructure investments

· Allocates $1.5 million to expand the scope of the Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) to leverage private investment by local water innovation companies and startups