Virginia American Water President Calls for Increased Investment in Water Infrastructure
Virginia American Water President Laura Runkle on Monday urged significant investment in the state's water and wastewater systems, following the release of the American Society of Civil Engineers' (ASCE) 2026 infrastructure report card for Virginia.
Laura Runkle, president of Virginia American Water, on Monday called for substantial investments to support the state's water and wastewater systems. Runkle emphasized the necessity of increased funding to ensure the continued provision of clean, reliable water and effective wastewater treatment.
Runkle's remarks followed the release of the American Society of Civil Engineers' (ASCE) 2026 Report Card for Virginia's Infrastructure. The report assigned a grade of C+ to drinking water infrastructure and a D+ to wastewater systems.
"These grades clearly indicate the need for greater investment in our critical water infrastructure," Runkle stated. She noted that supply chain disruptions and volatile raw material costs have added pressure to water and wastewater service providers.
Runkle urged policymakers and communities to prioritize the modernization and expansion of water systems. This, she explained, is crucial for safeguarding public health and safety for future generations, as well as supporting economic growth and environmental stewardship.