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New report calls for $12-billion investment in Michigan water infrastructure

anataman

Michigan’s water infrastructure needs a $12-billion overhaul.

That’s according to a new reportcommissioned from Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2), a national group interested in policies that are good for the environment and economy.

It outlines the importance of a massive investment into the state’s infrastructure.

Micaela Preskill is with E2. She said investment is essential for protecting public health and growing business.

“Without it we’re putting communities and our economy at risk while leaving jobs and tax revenue on the table.”

The report estimates that while the investment will be large - it could create 90,000 jobs related to wastewater, waterline, and stormwater infrastructure over two decades.

Dayne Bartscht is with Eastern Market Brewing Company in Detroit. He said breweries across the country have expressed jealousy over the water resources in Michigan.

“Without clean water our industry simply wouldn't exist. That’s thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in lost wages for Michiganders.”

Rhonda Grayer is with Flint-based WT Stevens, a construction company that has conducted some of the pipeline replacement in the city.

“I believe that investing in Michigan infrastructure will not only save lives but will create economic growth in the hardest hit communities, such as Flint,” she said.

According to the report, Michigan has long underfunded its water infrastructure - as evidenced by low grades given to the state by the American Society of Civil Engineers in drinking water, storm water, and wastewater infrastructure.