Drinking water systems across New Jersey in need of upgrades to protect public health are getting set for an influx of federal dollars under the infrastructure package signed by President Biden last month. New Jersey was recently allocated almost $169 million to spend on water system improvements, including for the removal of lead service lines, which are at the heart of water issues in dozens of water systems in the state. The money will also go toward upgrading water treatment plants to deal with PFAS, toxic substances known as “forever chemicals.”
In a letter to Gov. Phil Murphy, EPA Administrator Michael Regan urged the state to focus its spending on projects in communities that have historically suffered from environmental injustices. At a press conference in Perth Amboy Friday U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-6th) joined with advocates and said more money could be on the way to New Jersey if the “Build Back Better” bill is approved in Washington.
