NEW AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE REPORT REINFORCES NEED TO ACT ON UPDATING AND MAINTAINING U.S. WATER SYSTEMS

The grades are in and they continue to emphasize the need for investment in water and wastewater systems. The American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) latest Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, issued every four years since 2001, recently gave the nation’s water systems a D grade, and wastewater systems a D+ grade. This remains in line with the last few reports, and heightens the sense of urgency to take actions that will turn around the condition of this often overlooked category of infrastructure.

“This report refers to hundreds of miles of water main literally underneath our feet. It is easy to forget the important role it plays in our everyday life when we cannot see it, said Matthew Barnhart, senior operations manager.” In Joplin alone Missouri American Water is investing approximately $1.6 million in 2017. Projects like the water main relocation/upgrading on 20^th Street are critical so we can continue to provide reliable water service necessary for health, safety and local economic growth.

A breakdown of water systems can result in water disruptions, impediments to emergency response, and damage to other types of infrastructure. The price tag for the critical upkeep and replacement of the nation’s outdated water systems is at least $1 trillion over the next 25 years, according to estimates by the American Water Works Association. While it is a challenge, investing in water and wastewater systems have many benefits.

“Water infrastructure investments prove their value every day,” added Barnhart. For every $1 million invested in water infrastructure, it is estimated that upwards of 15 jobs are generated throughout the economy.

Missouri American Water

Missouri American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people.

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly-traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,700 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in 47 states and Ontario, Canada. More information can be found by visiting