U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Announces $10.7 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure at Santo Domingo Pueblo

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Announces $10.7 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure at Santo Domingo Pueblo

Senior leaders from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency joined leadership of Santo Domingo Pueblo today to announce a $10,735,000 federal infrastructure investment that will expand reliable sanitation services for the Pueblo community. The funding, administered through the Indian Health Service, will support a wastewater treatment plant project that includes construction of four lift stations and force mains to convey wastewater to a new treatment facility currently being built by the Pueblo. The investment represents a critical partnership that advances completion of the community's broader wastewater system.

"This investment reflects our shared commitment to ensuring Tribal communities have access to the essential infrastructure that supports health, safety, and long-term prosperity," said Senior Advisor to the Secretary of HHS Mark Cruz. "Clean water and reliable sanitation systems are foundational to healthy communities, and we are proud to partner with Santo Domingo Pueblo on this important project."

"HHS and EPA share a strong partnership and commitment to modernize Santo Domingo Pueblo's essential drinking water and wastewater infrastructure" said EPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Victoria Tran. "This $10.7 million investment advances the Administration's priority of protecting human health and the environment in Indian country."

The announcement follows the recent decision by the Indian Health Service to allocate $700 million in fiscal year 2026 funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to water and sanitation projects across Indian Country.

Despite decades of federal progress, significant infrastructure needs remain. Approximately 41,000 American Indian and Alaska Native homes still lack adequate sanitation facilities, including more than 4,300 tribal homes without access to safe water supply and/or waste disposal services. Through the IHS Sanitation Facilities Construction Program and partnerships with agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the federal government continues to address these needs through strategic investments in Tribal communities.

Today's event included remarks from federal and Tribal leaders, a symbolic funding presentation, and recognition of the partnership between the Pueblo and federal agencies working to improve community infrastructure.