Why we need to increase investment in our water system
- Eugene has an aging water system that is in serious need of reinvestment to ensure
that customers continue to get reliable, high-quality water.
- Capital spending did not previously allow us to replace pipes, rebuild
reservoirs and maintain the water system at a sustainable rate into the future.
For example, we have 800 miles of water mains but only have enough money each year
to replace about a mile of pipe.
- EWEB isn't alone: Most other cities and water districts across the United States
are facing similar needs to ramp up capital spending. Nationally, about $300 billion
in improvements are needed.
- Reinvestments will not be expensive to most customers. Eugene residents enjoy some
of the lowest-cost water in the state of Oregon.
- Water is our most valuable and precious asset. We can't afford to let the system
fall into disrepair.