AWWA stresses importance of water infrastructure.
Press Release Summary:
During Drinking Water Week, AWWA joins water professionals across North America in highlighting importance of investing in our water infrastructure. According to 2008 study by U.S. Conference of Mayors, for every dollar invested in public water and sewer infrastructure and services, approximately $8.97 is added to national economy. AWWA estimated that $10 billion investment in water infrastructure projects in U.S. would almost immediately create at least 400,000 jobs.
Original Press Release:
Drinking Water Week Reminds Us of 'Real and Lasting Value' of Water Systems
(DENVER, CO) - As Drinking Water Week continues, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) joins water professionals across North America in highlighting the importance of investing in our water infrastructure.
As individuals and communities, today we demand a solid "return on investment" for each dollar we spend. That's exactly what's earned by investing in U.S. water systems. In fact, a 2008 study by the U.S. Conference of Mayors showed that for every dollar invested in public water and sewer infrastructure and services, approximately $8.97 is added to the national economy.
"One silver lining in these hard economic times is that we tend to focus more on things of real and lasting value," says Mike Leonard, AWWA President. "Only tap water delivers public health protection, fire protection, support for the economy and the quality of life we enjoy. And in these tight times, reinvesting in our tap water system can even deliver new jobs."
Water infrastructure projects involve engineering, pipe and valve manufacturing, concrete and construction work and more. AWWA recently estimated that a $10 billion investment in water infrastructure projects in the United States would almost immediately create at least 400,000 jobs.
Investing in our tap water systems is a smart, safe, common sense investment that will pay off for generations to come. What's good for our health and safety is also good for our ailing economy.
About Drinking Water Week
For more than 30 years, the American Water Works Association and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week - a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together to recognize the vital role water plays in our daily lives.
Established in 1881, AWWA is the oldest and largest nonprofit, scientific and educational organization dedicated to safe water in North America. AWWA has more than 60,000 members worldwide and its 4,500 utility members serve 80 percent of the U.S. population.
AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the entire water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.
CONTACT: Deirdre Mueller
303-347-6140
dmueller@awwa.org
