Rising to the Occasion
Pursuing Equity and Justice
Agencies have a unique opportunity to achieve broader outcomes by serving as anchor institutions to spur economic development, repair environmental injustices and stimulate community wealth building in historically underserved communities. Utility leaders across the U.S. are raising their voices and working with federal, state and municipal leaders to form intentional partnerships with community-based organizations, minority- and women-owned businesses and the private sector to create more equitable outcomes in the communities they serve.
In the article "Rising to the Occasion," (requires login or subscription to read) featured in Water Environment & Technology magazine’s “2023 State of the Sector” issue, HDR’s Victoria Johnson and Louisville (Kentucky) and Jefferson County Metropolitan Sewer District Executive Director Tony Parrott share perspectives from five utilities in partnership with community organizations and industry associations committed to working collectively to achieve an equitable water future.
As the U.S. economy continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, the water sector can fulfill a critical role in the communities it serves. Doing the work requires intentional, innovative and multidisciplined approaches across sectors with the common goal of reducing barriers and improving outcomes through a variety of approaches, including:
- Equity in Procurement & Contracting
- Community Benefits & Community Partnerships
- Workforce Development & Job Creation
- Rates & Affordability
- Equitable Capital Improvement Planning
As we work together to meet the needs of the communities we serve, outcomes-driven strategies and approaches are key to creating a more equitable and resilient world.
