This week, Indiana American Water President Barry Suits joined a cohort of American Water state presidents and senior executives to meet with members of Congress in Washington, D.C. The group aimed to strengthen relationships with policymakers and discuss potential solutions to vital water and wastewater infrastructure needs across the nation.
Led by American Water President and Chief Executive Officer John Griffith and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Cheryl Norton, the engagements included representation from 11 states and more than 40 meetings with congressional offices. Key topics focused on policy issues that affect water utilities, investment in water and wastewater infrastructure, the future of clean water access and other key legislative priorities.
“This fly-in offered an important opportunity to bring the voices of our Indiana customers to the forefront and to discuss policies that support continued investment in our state’s water infrastructure,” Suits said. “Many of Indiana’s water systems are aging and in need of modernization, and thoughtful, sustained investment will be key to maintaining safe, reliable service for our communities.”
This year’s fly-in underscored the need for significant investment in water infrastructure, especially given the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The nation’s drinking water systems received a grade of “C-” and wastewater systems a grade of “D+,” highlighting the serious challenges facing U.S. water and wastewater utilities. American Water plans to invest $40 billion to $42 billion over the next decade in infrastructure upgrades and repairs, including right here in Indiana.
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