The US Water Alliance, in partnership with global engineering firm Stantec and economic consultancy One Water Econ, has released a major new report – Tapping Potential: The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of how investment in water systems drives growth across the US economy.
Developed as part of the Alliance’s Value of Water campaign, the report combines new data and advanced economic modelling to quantify the benefits of closing America’s water infrastructure investment gap. The findings highlight water’s essential role in powering industry, creating jobs, and supporting resilient communities.
Billions in potential returns
Much of the US water infrastructure network was built decades ago and is now operating far beyond its intended lifespan. While water remains the foundation of public health and economic stability, federal investment has declined from covering 50% of national water funding to just 7% over the past 40 years.
The report reveals that fully funding water infrastructure needs over the next 20 years – including operations and maintenance – could increase US gross domestic product by $3.9 trillion, generate $7.3 trillion in economic output, and support over 1.4 million jobs per year.
Andrew Burnham, Vice President for Stantec’s Management and Technology sector, said:
“Water infrastructure is the backbone of every community and industry. Every dollar invested in water supports well-paying jobs and protects the economic output of critical industries. This report paints a clear picture of the nation’s water infrastructure needs and the financial opportunities investment delivers.”
Comprehensive analysis across water sectors
Tapping Potential is the most detailed economic analysis ever produced by the US Water Alliance’s Value of Water campaign. It examines traditional water and wastewater systems, while also factoring in critical issues such as stormwater management, PFAS mitigation, and the replacement of lead service lines.
The report draws on data from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the American Water Works Association (AWWA), the Water Environment Federation (WEF), and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
Mami Hara, Chief Executive Officer of the US Water Alliance, commented:
“This report offers a roadmap for the nation: invest in water and reap enormous benefits for people, communities, and the economy. Delays only raise the risks and the costs. Now is the moment to unite for water.”
Supporting sustainable water infrastructure
Stantec employs more than 5,800 water professionals globally, delivering sustainable water infrastructure solutions to utilities and municipalities. In the United States, the company has played key roles in major projects including the Bull Run Filtration Facility in Portland, Oregon; the Piscataway Water Resource Recovery BioEnergy project in Prince George’s County, Maryland; and the Pure Water Los Angeles initiative in California.
By quantifying the economic returns of investment in water, the Tapping Potential report underscores the urgency of modernising water systems to build resilience, safeguard resources, and strengthen the economy.
