TWDB Approves $40.9 Million for Sharyland Water Supply Corporation to Address Emerging Contaminants
Austin, TX – Yesterday, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved $40,900,000 in principal forgiveness funding from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Emerging Contaminants Program for the Sharyland Water Supply Corporation (Sharyland WSC) in Hidalgo County. The funding will support planning, design, and construction of improvements to the water treatment system that address emerging contaminants.
Sharyland WSC provides water services to a population of approximately 73,699 residents and approximately 19,574 water connections. Sharyland WSC’s system was found to have perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s maximum contaminant levels. The project is intended to help reduce exposure to those contaminants and improve drinking water service for the communities Sharyland serves.
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are a group of man-made chemicals that do not break down in the environment or the human body. Prolonged exposure has been linked to serious health risks, including certain cancers, immune system disruption, developmental issues in children, and thyroid problems.
The source of this funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA), which was signed into law by President Biden. The IIJA appropriated funds for federal fiscal years 2022 through 2026 to reduce exposure to PFAS and other emerging contaminants. Sharyland WSC will not have to pay back the funding because it is being provided as 100 percent principal forgiveness, meaning the assistance does not have to be repaid. The project is expected to be completed in December 2028.
Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa expressed his support, stating: “This $40.9 million investment means families in Hidalgo County served by Sharyland WSC will have access to safe, clean drinking water with significantly reduced levels of harmful PFAS contaminants. By modernizing Sharyland WSC's treatment system, this project will strengthen public health and support the region's long-term water needs.”
