Texas Engineering Council advocates for $2.25 billion in water infrastructure funding

The Texas Senate Committee on Finance convened on May 7, 2025, to address critical infrastructure funding, particularly focusing on water and flood management needs. A key highlight from the meeting was the discussion surrounding House Joint Resolution 7 (HJR 7), which aims to establish a dedicated funding stream for water and flood infrastructure projects in Texas.

Scott Stewart, representing the American Council of Engineering Companies of Texas, emphasized the urgent need for increased funding, citing a staggering annual requirement of $4 billion for water and flood infrastructure. He advocated for raising the proposed funding amount from $1 billion to approximately $2.25 billion to better align with the state's pressing infrastructure demands. Stewart expressed concerns regarding the proposed 80/20 funding split, urging that funds be managed by the Texas Water Development Board to ensure efficient allocation to the most critical projects.

The committee members engaged in a robust dialogue about the necessity of prioritizing water supply in the face of significant shortages. Senator Bettencourt and others highlighted the importance of addressing supply constraints, noting that many regional planning groups lack clear strategies to meet their water supply shortfalls. The discussion underscored the reality that Texas is facing a potential shortfall of up to 7 million acre-feet of water, exacerbated by regulatory and economic challenges in developing new reservoirs.

As the committee deliberates on HJR 7, the implications of their decisions will resonate throughout Texas, impacting local communities and their ability to manage water resources effectively. The urgency of these discussions reflects a growing recognition of the need for strategic investment in infrastructure to safeguard the state's future water supply and flood management capabilities. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how Texas addresses these pressing challenges.