Governor Hobbs Announces $60 Million Investment to Secure Arizona’s Water Future

PHOENIX, AZ — Governor Katie Hobbs has announced a $60.3 million investment aimed at safeguarding Arizona’s water supply, prioritizing conservation efforts, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainable water management. The initiative seeks to address the state’s most pressing water challenges through advanced technology, scientific studies, and targeted funding for local communities.

“Arizona’s Water Future Depends on Action Today”

“Arizona’s water future depends on taking action today,” said Governor Hobbs. “Not only is my administration driving key policy reforms, but I’m also committed to making investments that protect water for every Arizonan and ensure our communities have the resources they need to continue growing for generations to come.”

Key Investments in Arizona’s Water Supply:

• $14.6 million – Water Conservation Grant Fund
  The Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA) will support conservation projects across the state, including rural water solutions and long-term sustainable supplies. This builds on the $200 million previously allocated by the state, which has already funded over 150 projects.
• $12.3 million – Assistance for Small Water Systems
  Small public water systems will receive funding through the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) to support infrastructure improvements and ensure communities have access to clean, reliable drinking water.
• $5 million – Combatting PFAS Contamination
  This funding doubles ADEQ’s resources for identifying and remediating PFAS, the harmful “forever chemicals” that pose a threat to Arizona’s water supplies.
• $12 million – Renewable Water Infrastructure in Buckeye
  The City of Buckeye will use these funds to expand renewable water sources through wastewater reuse and aquifer recharge, helping the city secure a 100-year Assured Water Supply designation.
• $7 million – Groundwater Monitoring
  New groundwater index wells across rural Arizona will provide real-time data on aquifer levels, aiding in long-term water management strategies.
• $5.5 million – Hydrogeologic Studies
  Scientific studies will provide crucial data for groundwater management, allowing the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) to develop accurate models and improve conservation efforts.
• $3.49 million – Advanced Water Monitoring Technology
  Investments in satellite monitoring, gravity surveys, and GPS tracking will enhance aquifer management and improve water demand projections statewide.
• $500,000 – Wastewater Contamination Cleanup
  ADEQ will use these funds to identify and replace failing wastewater disposal systems in rural areas, preventing contamination of critical water sources.

Funding Unaffected by Federal Freeze

Governor Hobbs emphasized that these funds are not impacted by the ongoing federal funding freeze, ensuring that water infrastructure projects continue without disruption.

With these strategic investments, Arizona is taking proactive steps to secure its water future, support rural communities, and promote long-term sustainability in the face of ongoing water challenges.