Guam is one step closer to improving its water infrastructure with the passage of a major bill in Congress.

The House and Senate approved the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024, which is now awaiting action from President Biden.

The bill includes a $35 million authorization for a resiliency project at the Ugum Surface Water Treatment Plant.

Guam Delegate James Moylan, who works closely with the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, says the project will ensure clean water access even during extreme weather.

Moylan thanked his colleagues and Guam Waterworks Authority officials, including General Manager Miguel Bordallo and Chief Engineer Tom Cruz, for their support and data contributions.

The bill also gives Guam “priority” status for WRDA projects, shifting non-federal costs to the Secretary of the Army, and includes surveys for flood and coastal storm risk management.

Moylan said the next step is to secure funding for the Ugum Project in future appropriations.