Improving a Program that Works: Prioritizing New Jersey Water Bank Projects in Disadvantaged Communities

This report, published with New Jersey Future, looks at the New Jersey Water Bank (NJWB), which has provided over $9 billion in low-cost financing for water and wastewater infrastructure projects in the state. The report analyzes NJWB awards (i.e. low interest loans and principal forgiveness) over a 5-year period and also assesses the underlying policies governing how New Jersey defines disadvantaged communities.

The report’s ten recommendations would increase the equity and effectiveness of the NJWB program and ensure that communities with the greatest needs receive adequate assistance.