In many ways, 2020 has been a year that demanded that we confront previously unimaginable situations.

While in the grips of an unrelenting pandemic, wildfires have raged for months, destroying homes, threatening agriculture and leaving behind devastation and weeks of poor air quality. Hurricane season seems to be endless, multiple storms have ravaged the country with heavy winds, rains and flooding.  

Clearly the impacts of global climate change are being felt at home and worldwide.

Now, imagine a day without water.  What would you miss? That morning cup of coffee, or the splash of cool water as it hits your face?

For those of us lucky enough to live in the Bay Area, this too seems unimaginable. We turn our taps on and out comes clean, safe and healthy water.

But for others, some even here in California, having reliable access to fresh, clean healthy water is something they can only imagine.  

What can be done? The Value of Water Campaign, and its partners and participating agencies, like the SFPUC, are working hard to ensure that safe, clean and healthy water is available for everyone.  It all starts with education and investments in infrastructure.

Did you know that the average American uses over 64,000 gallons of water each year?  The infrastructure needed to store, treat and deliver that water needs maintenance and repair.  Much of this infrastructure is in dire need of repair. By some estimates it will take $4.8 trillion over the next 20 years to maintain critical water infrastructure in the United States.  Your support is needed to make sure we invest now.

This year the SFPUC is commemorating the completion of 35 water infrastructure projects within the City. These projects have made our system more resilient and reliable, helping ensure that we can continue to deliver water each and every day. By investing in infrastructure, we are prepared for the future. 

Now, imagine a world where no one has to go a day without water.