Through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), RIIB makes low-interest loans to community public water systems, non-profit non-community public water systems, privately organized water suppliers and local governmental units to complete drinking water infrastructure projects.
$700M+
Financed since inception
DWSRF IUP (Apr 2025: $714M); shown conservatively
120+
Loans closed
DWSRF IUP lifetime loan count
25%
Interest subsidized
Below borrower market rate
1997
Federal program
Sponsored by EPA & R.I.
Ready to apply
For small drinking water systems serving fewer than 10,000 people.
Also related: Emerging Contaminants Grant
For disadvantaged or small drinking water systems serving fewer than 10,000 people under the Emerging Contaminants - Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program.
Not sure this is the right form? Check eligibility or browse all application forms.
Community public water systems, non-profit non-community public water systems, privately organized water suppliers, and local governmental units, consistent with state and federal DWSRF guidance.
Planning, design, and construction of safe drinking water supply, treatment, and transmission infrastructure that meets program and regulatory objectives.
Projects are considered based on the Department of Health’s Project Priority List, readiness to proceed, credit review, availability of funds, and successful completion of project and financing applications with RIIB and the Department of Health.
Partner City of Woonsocket Challenge: The City of Woonsocket’s aging drinking water plant was not meeting Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management water quality discharge standards and entered into an agreemen
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Partner Town of Warren Challenge: Warren’s municipal wastewater treatment facility was found to be discharging high levels of nitrogen into Warren Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Warren officials reached out to the Infrastr
Read storyDWSRF financing can support the planning, design, and construction of safe drinking water supply, treatment, and transmission infrastructure.
Loans may be repaid over a period of up to 20 years and can be structured to meet the repayment ability unique to each borrower.
Interest is subsidized at 25% below the borrower’s market rate.
Financing is awarded based on the Department of Health’s Project Priority List, readiness to proceed, credit approval, and availability of funds.
Borrowers work directly with RIIB and the Rhode Island Department of Health to complete project and financing applications.
For systems serving fewer than 10,000 people. Apply online or download the PDF.
For disadvantaged or small drinking water systems under the EC-SDC Grant Program.
Session overview for drinking water systems.
Webinar
Supporting materials referenced in webinar listings.
Presentation
DWSRF supports drinking water supply, treatment, and transmission. CWSRF is focused on wastewater, stormwater, and related water quality projects. You may be eligible for one or both, depending on the project.
Work with the Rhode Island Department of Health and RIIB program staff. Key program documents are listed in Additional resources.
Wastewater, stormwater, and water quality infrastructure financing.
Financing for residential septic repair, replacement, and cesspool upgrades in opt-in municipalities.
Business Development Analyst
For more information about the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, please contact:
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