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Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) announced the inclusion of $1.1 million in funding for the Connecting Communities: Upper Valley First-Time Water & Wastewater Projects. 

This funding would be used to provide for the design and environmental assessment for a cluster of first-time water and wastewater projects throughout the El Paso Upper Valley, benefiting over 400 residents with access to critical water infrastructure and promoting the health and safety of the community.

“For decades, many colonia residents have lacked potable water and wastewater treatment systems, affecting the health and prosperity of our community,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “Redressing the historic inequities that have affected El Paso has been a top priority for me, and this federal funding will help our local government overcome the financial obstacles to provide first-time water and wastewarer connections in colonias. I am grateful to the Committee for including this project and look forward to continue advocating to get this critical investment across the finish line.” 

“Providing our rural communities with basic necessities such as water and wastewater services is of the utmost priority for El Paso County,” said County Judge Ricardo A. Samaniego. “If funding is approved, the implementation of this project will provide 52 first time water connections and 138 wastewater connections to households throughout the County. We will continue to work closely with Congresswoman Escobar to help improve the quality of life for our residents.” 

The funding was including in the Fiscal Year 2022 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Appropriations bill. This federal funding legislation will advance to the floor for a vote by the full U.S. House of Representatives later in July. The legislation must pass both chambers of Congress and be signed by President Joe Biden before funds can be distributed.

More information about the Community Project Funding requests to the Appropriations Committee and Congresswoman Escobar submitted requests can be found here.