Heather Syverson

WIFIA Legislation Would Provide Low-Cost Loans for Water Infrastructure Projects

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U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced legislation in late January to reauthorize the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA). The bill would help stimulate investment in water infrastructure, such as flood control, stormwater management, and wastewater treatment by supplementing Federal funding with long-term, low-cost loans and loan guarantees. Similar legislation has … Read more

Horizontal Infrastructure Project Costs Increase Due to Recent Hurricanes

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The most recent hurricane season devastated parts of Texas, Florida, and areas of adjacent States, as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  As the post-storm cleanup costs mount, other parts of the country are also faced with financial impacts from the powerful storms.  Fuel prices are typically the first to be affected.  … Read more

Funding Available for Montana Nonpoint Source Projects

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The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) anticipates approximately $900,000 in funding for nonpoint source water pollution projects available under the Federal Clean Water Act. Nonpoint source water pollution stems from many sources and is often generated by land use such as agricultural and forestry activities, urban and suburban development, and runoff from abandoned mine … Read more

Economic Conditions Favorable for Replacing Underground Infrastructure

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It appears 2017 will be a good year to construct or replace underground infrastructure.  Thanks to relatively favorable interest rates, infrastructure projects are more affordable right now.  “The interest rates in Federal and State funding programs such as the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRF/CWSRF) and USDA Rural Development funding are at … Read more

Utility Rate Survey Responses Due in March

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The deadline for completing the 16th Annual Rate Survey questionnaire is Monday, March 20, 2017. The digital and print versions of the survey were sent out in late January. Each year, AE2S conducts a survey of water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste utility rates throughout the region. Two unique reports are prepared based on community population. … Read more

USEPA Amends Risk Management Program for Chemical Facilities

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has finalized a rule to amend its Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations. The update aims to reduce the likelihood of accidental releases at chemical facilities and improve emergency response activities when those releases occur. “This rule is based on extensive engagement with nearly 1,800 people over the last two … Read more