Water Infrastructure and Sanitation on the U.S.-Mexico Border

The University of Texas, El Paso conducted an HIA focused on water infrastructure to help the city of Presidio, Texas, decide whether to extend its water system to the neighboring colonia* of Las Pampas, which lacks a treated water supply. Inadequate access to safe water puts people at greater risk of gastrointestinal illnesses such as Giardia infections and dysentery, as well as hepatitis and dehydration. Improved local water systems may lead to higher property values and higher tax revenue, which can be used to support services that can foster better health, such as clinics and social services.

*The Texas secretary of state defines a colonia as a residential area along the Texas-Mexico border that may lack basic living necessities, such as potable water and sewer systems, electricity, paved roads, and safe and sanitary housing.