As the nation struggles to repair, maintain, and expand its water infrastructure, public-private partnerships are gaining traction as a strategy for filling the gaps. Public-private partnerships (or P3s) are touted on the idea that public projects can benefit from the private sector’s efficiency and innovation arising from increased competition, expanded financing options, ability to understand and absorb risk, and more flexible personnel and procurement processes. In return, the private sector is given the opportunity to access a market otherwise served by the public. It can be a mutually beneficial relationship.
With support from EPA’s new Water Infrastructure and Resiliency Finance Center, and in partnership with the West Coast Water Infrastructure Exchange, the EFC examined the potential benefits of alternative water project and service delivery partnerships and mechanisms. This objective assessment provides analysis to assist decision makers in understanding the potential financial impacts (both positive and negative) of alternative approaches and make informed decisions about the most effective approach to financing and managing their water services.
Research Summary
Companion Perspective Document (Developed by the Water Finance Center)
Project Delivery Profiles
- Allentown Water and Wastewater Utility Concession
- Bayonne Water and Wastewater Concession Agreement
- City of Phoenix Lake Pleasant Water Treatment Plant Design Build and Operate Project
- City of Regina Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Design, Build, Finance, Operate, & Maintain Project
- Davis Woodland Water Supply Design Build and Operate (DBO) Project
- Rialto Water and Wastewater Concession Agreement: Capital Flows
- Prince George’s County Urban Stormwater Retrofit Public Private Partnership
- Santa Paula Water Recycling Facility
- Tampa Bay Water Desalination Plant
