Water Infrastructure

Much of the drinking water infrastructure in the United States will need to be replaced in the next three decades. A large portion of water pipes was installed during three periods, and they will all need to be replaced in the next 30 years:

The oldest cast iron pipes laid in the late 1800s usually last 120 years
Pipes laid in 1920s must be replaced after 100 years
Pipes from the post-World War II boom wear out after 75 years.

The cost estimates to replace the old pipes range from $280-$400 billion. The longer our water infrastructure is out of sight, out of mind, the closer we are to a serious national situation that will require immediate and dramatic funding.

The cost of water

Regardless of when the pipes are replaced, water is going to cost more in the future. And it’s an investment worth making, considering all that water provides – public health protection, fire protection, support for the economy, and quality of life.

Since most of our infrastructure was laid before many of us were born, current generations have not had to pay huge amounts for infrastructure investment. But that will change in the next three decades. Water rates will rise to pay for:

Replacing current water infrastructure
New water infrastructure to support increasing populations
New water treatment technologies for increased water quality