Safe, clean drinking water at the turn of a tap. Wastewater removal with a flush. It can be easy to take for granted these actions, and the underground systems that make them possible. But these expectations, the strength of local economies, and public health, depend on dedicated support of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure systems.

The Issue

A large percentage of this infrastructure has or will reach the end of its useful life in the coming decades, requiring a commitment to rehabilitation or replacement.

The 2005 Survey by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (PDF) (35pp, 984K, About PDF) Exit indicates that aging infrastructure is the top water issue for Mayors across the country. New infrastructure built to accommodate community growth will also need to be renewed over time.

The Solution

Local elected officials and decision makers play a vital role in safeguarding these shared community assets and ensuring their operation over the long term:

• Five Things Local Officials Should Know - An introduction to sustainable infrastructure in your community and the nation, including basic facts, the role that local officials can play, and what it can mean for your community.
• Five Things Local Officials Should Do - Concrete actions local officials can take toward building greater water infrastructure sustainability in their own communities.
• Resources for Local Official - Links to organizations for local officials and sources of water infrastructure financing.