Laredo getting $20M in federal funds to help ailing water infrastructure system
Dec 24, 2024
McALLEN, Texas (Border Report) -- The border city of Laredo, Texas, is getting an infusion of $20 million to help its troubled water infrastructure system, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar announced.
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The federal funds were part of $300 million for the Army Corps of Engineers environmental infrastructure assistance program, which was included in the latest funding deal and disaster aid package signed by President Joe Biden.
The funds will go to improve the water system for the 260,000 residents in Laredo and Webb County.
Residents have had to endure multiple days-long boil-water orders, including 12 days in October when E. coli contaminated the city's water supply.
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas (Cuellar Photo)
These funds will "address critical water infrastructure needs in Laredo,” said Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. "These initiatives represent a significant step forward in enhancing our water infrastructure and supporting our communities. Let’s continue working together to build a better future for Laredo and beyond.”
Cuellar also announced new federal funding that includes $250 million for the International Boundary and Water Commission for emergency water infrastructure repairs and to address sewage contamination of U.S. border communities, like the Tijuana River Valley in Southern California.
Sandra Sanchez can be reached at [email protected].