Rally for Water on Capitol Hill
On Wednesday, March 22, as part of Water Week 2017, several water and wastewater organizations held a Rally for Water on Capitol Hill to raise awareness of infrastructure, public health, and the positive economic impacts within the community from the water sector. The lively crowd was full of energy despite the brisk spring breeze. DC Water and Alexandria Renew Enterprises brought utility workers in hard hats plus their respective mascots to liven up the crowd.
Several speakers, including three Congressman and several utility managers, spoke of the importance of water and wastewater systems for public health protection, protection of the environment, job creation, and economic health. Congressmen Dan Kildee (D-MI) relayed his personal experience with lead contamination in Flint and the long-term adverse health impacts to the residents as well as the economic impacts to that city.