Department of Health's Recovery Act Efforts
Implementing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009  (Recovery Act)

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) was enacted in February to jumpstart the U.S. economy, create or save millions of jobs, and address long-neglected projects and improvements so we can face new challenges in the 21st century.

The Recovery Act goals are to modernize our nation’s infrastructure, enhance energy independence, expand educational opportunities, improve health care and make it affordable, provide tax relief, and protect those in greatest need. 

Two Department of Health programs are among the many Washington State projects.  The department is receiving Recovery Act funds to be used in local communities for projects to improve public health, improve health, stimulate the economy, and create jobs in Washington State. The first of these projects will pay for drinking water system construction projects in 24 local communities. The funds also allowed the successful WIC (Women, Infants and Children) nutrition program to continue to offer access to nutritious food to its clients.

Improved Water Quality

The Department of Health's Drinking Water program was awarded $38.5 million to be used in water system construction programs.

The dollars are distributed to local agencies to build, repair or rebuild drinking water infrastructure. Projects range from the replacement of the water main in Startup to arsenic remediation in Wallula to a new water treatment plant in Ocean Shores. These projects will not only improve drinking water safety but will also provide jobs in each community.

Complete details about the economic recovery funds for water systems.

Economic Recovery Programs in your Community

Washington State was given several grants to help spur the economic recovery of the Pacific Northwest. While some dollars will go into the development of future projects, others will have an immediate impact in communities all over Washington.

To see the many areas feeling the effects of these programs, we have assembled maps of the state showing the grant dollars being used in counties and legislative and congressional districts.

Agency contact information:

Bill White, Deputy Secretary
(360) 236-4030
Bill.White@doh.wa.gov