Columbus Water and Power requests $1.9B for major infrastructure improvements

Columbus Water and Power has unveiled a significant capital budget request of $1.9 billion for 2025, aimed at enhancing water and sewer services for over 1.4 million residents across five counties. This ambitious plan includes $1.7 billion in new funding and $177 million in carryover funds, reflecting the growing demand for reliable utility services in the region.

The proposed budget prioritizes several key projects, including the construction of a fourth water plant, which is currently in the final design phase and expected to be bid in the fall. This facility is crucial for meeting the increasing water capacity needs of the area. The total cost for this project is projected at $2.2 billion, marking it as the largest capital improvement initiative in the department's history.

In addition to the new water plant, the budget allocates funds for ongoing infrastructure improvements, such as the annual water main rehabilitation program, which aims to maintain the integrity of the city's extensive water line network. Other notable projects include a major sanitary subtrunk extension in the Northeast area to support regional growth and a stormwater improvement project in the downtown Arena District to mitigate flooding.

The budget also emphasizes the importance of water reuse initiatives, particularly for commercial customers like data centers that require non-potable water for cooling. This innovative approach is part of a broader strategy to ensure sustainable water management in the face of rising demand.

Columbus Water and Power operates on a revenue model supported by its ratepayers, which includes both residential and commercial customers throughout the service area. The committee highlighted that the financial burden of these projects is shared across the entire region, not just the city of Columbus.

As the city prepares to implement these critical infrastructure projects, the focus remains on providing reliable utility services while fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability. The upcoming years will see continued investment in water and sewer systems, ensuring that Columbus remains equipped to meet the needs of its growing population.