en.Wedoany.com Reported - U.S. water systems are facing multiple pressures from aging infrastructure, regulatory uncertainty, and supply constraints. The newly released "Black & Veatch 2026 Water Report" reveals how leading water utilities are addressing these complexities through digital transformation and collaborative delivery.

Based on insights from over 600 U.S. water industry stakeholders, the report measures progress among water utilities in expanding capacity, modernizing aging infrastructure, and finding innovative ways to extend and optimize critical system performance. Aging infrastructure was cited as the top challenge by 66% of respondents. The survey shows steady progress in how water utilities are adjusting their collaborative approaches to meet challenges, with respondents pointing to new opportunities from digital solutions, integrated planning, and alternative delivery models that enable faster, more cost-effective infrastructure development.

Donnie Ginn, Executive Vice President of Black & Veatch's Integrated Water and Environment business, stated that water utilities are being asked to do more than ever before, most importantly ensuring reliable supply amid increasingly scarce resources. As pressures persist, water utilities and communities that advance more integrated approaches will strengthen resilient and reliable water systems for the customers they serve.

Now in its 15th year, the report highlights that the traditional industry is ready to embrace digital innovation, strategic investment, and collaborative project delivery. Survey data shows that 71% of water utilities view staffing as a barrier, 31% of respondents cited funding or capital availability as an overall top challenge, and 19% mentioned pressure from increased or expanded regulation, indicating that cost pressures have surpassed regulation as a core pressure point. 45% of water utilities indicated that funding over the next 5 to 10 years will be insufficient to meet capital needs. Confidence among water utilities in serving large industrial customers declined from 73% in 2024 to 60% in 2026. 70% of respondents said they collect sufficient data, but only 19% said they effectively utilize it. Nearly seven in ten (68%) respondents have conducted vulnerability studies on some aspect of their utility or system, and nearly eight in ten (79%) respondents view sustainability as a clear priority. Almost all respondents consider operational technology (OT) cybersecurity investments important or very important.

The report reflects a growing recognition that no single solution can address the industry's challenges, emphasizing the need for better integration of engineering, digital tools, and cross-sector collaboration. The water industry is increasingly turning to lifecycle strategies that align planning, design, construction, and operations to help water utilities and industrial users adapt more quickly to changing conditions while maintaining service reliability.

Black & Veatch is a 100% employee-owned global engineering, procurement, consulting, and construction company with over 100 years of track record in innovating critical human infrastructure. Since 1915, the company has helped clients improve people's lives around the world by enhancing the resilience and reliability of vital infrastructure and energy assets.

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