- A $60.3 million outlay surpasses the earlier $3 million proposal.
- Conservation, technology, and infrastructure are key focuses.
- $14.6 million boosts WIFA for long-term water solutions.
- Smaller water systems get $12.3 million for upgrades.
- City of Buckeye secures $12 million to bolster sustainable supply.
January 29, 2025 — Yesterday, Governor Katie Hobbs unveiled a new $60.3 million initiative dedicated to safeguarding Arizona’s water resources, far exceeding the $3 million litigation fund announced as part of her proposed budget earlier this month. The significant investment emphasizes water conservation, infrastructure enhancements, advanced technology, and long-term resiliency in communities statewide.
“Arizona’s water future depends on taking action today,” said Governor Hobbs
. “Not only is my administration driving key policy reforms, I’m committed to making investments that protect water for every Arizonan and ensure our communities have the resources they need to continue growing for generations to come.”
Addressing Statewide Needs.
The funding plan directs critical resources toward multiple programs. The Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA) will receive $14.6 million for its Water Conservation Grant Fund, aiding rural water solutions and supporting sustainable water supplies. Another $12.3 million will assist disadvantaged public water systems through the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), improving infrastructure to ensure safe drinking water.
Tackling Contamination and Conservation.
PFAS contamination, caused by persistent “forever chemicals,” remains a serious concern. To combat this, $5 million will supplement existing ADEQ programs to identify and remediate these pollutants. The City of Buckeye will receive $12 million to bolster renewable water sources, focusing on effluent reuse and recharge as part of its strategy for a 100-year Alternative Designation of Assured Water Supply.
Strengthening Groundwater Data.
An additional $7 million will fund the installation of new groundwater index wells in rural areas to track aquifer levels. Another $5.5 million will support hydrogeologic studies in basins facing declining water levels, bolstering the Arizona Department of Water Resources’ (ADWR) capacity to model and protect groundwater. Meanwhile, $3.49 million will go toward advanced water monitoring tools like satellite imaging and GPS technology, and $500,000 has been allocated for wastewater contamination cleanup in rural communities.
These investments rely on federal ARPA funding, which the Governor’s office confirms remains unaffected by the current federal funding freeze. Additional details can be found by visiting the Governor’s overview of water investments.
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