“With the climate crisis already impacting Central Texas, water is perhaps the precious resource that is most threatened. This direct federal funding will allow the city of Kyle to move forward with new water infrastructure to conserve resources and increase drought resilience,” Doggett said in a statement. “These new funds will enable expanded use of reclaimed water in planning for this rapidly growing community.”
The Kyle City Council acknowledged the federal funding at its meeting Feb. 21.
“Congressman Doggett generously earmarked $2 million for our water reclamation project. ... They, as in the feds, consider the city of Kyle at the forefront of purple pipe and reclaimed water, so we're excited about this opportunity,” Assistant City Manager Amber Schmeits said at the meeting.
Purple pipes are used for reclaimed and recycled water that is not meant for drinking, though the water may be clear. Reclaimed water is harmless to humans via direct contact and can be used for nondrinking purposes, such as toilet flushing and irrigation.
“We are exceptionally grateful for Representative Doggett's support and advocacy for our Reclaimed Water Master Plan project,” Mayor Travis Mitchell said in the statement. “As Central Texas continues to grow, so does the demand on the region's limited water supplies. Reclaimed water has proven to be a sustainable solution for rapid growth and provides a cost-effective and 'drought-proof' water resource for current and future public infrastructure.”
The Reclaimed Water Master Plan is in development with the first draft expected in late March, Director of Communications Rachel Sonnier said.
