Atlanta Earns Credit Rating Upgrade for Water and Sewer System, Strengthening Long-Term Infrastructure Investment

Atlanta Earns Credit Rating Upgrade for Water and Sewer System, Strengthening Long-Term Infrastructure Investment

ATLANTA-The City of Atlanta has received a credit rating upgrade for its water and wastewater system from Standard & Poor's (S&P), reinforcing the City's strong financial management and helping position Atlanta to continue investing in reliable infrastructure while protecting long-term affordability for residents.

S&P raised the rating on the Department of Watershed Management's (DWM) senior-lien revenue bonds to AA from AA- and assigned a AA- rating with a stable outlook to the City's anticipated 2026 subordinate-lien bonds. The upgrade reflects sustained progress on major infrastructure improvements, reduced regulatory risk and disciplined financial oversight across the system.

"This upgrade is a direct result of disciplined leadership and sustained investment in our water and sewer system," said Mayor Andre Dickens. "I want to thank Chief Operating Officer Burks and Commissioner Eyerly for the work they have done to strengthen this system and reduce risk. Atlanta is now better positioned to invest in the infrastructure our residents depend on while supporting long-term affordability and growth."

"Under the leadership of Commissioner Eyerly, DWM has made so much progress that S&P is betting on its future," said City of Atlanta Chief Operating Officer LaChandra Butler Burks. "This is what steady leadership and disciplined investment look like. We are building a system that is stronger, more resilient and prepared to serve Atlanta for generations to come."

For residents, a higher credit rating means the City can borrow at lower interest rates. That translates into more efficient investment in water and sewer upgrades that support neighborhoods across Atlanta while helping manage long-term costs.

"This upgrade reflects years of strategic investment and commitment to protecting public health and the environment," said Commissioner Greg Eyerly, Department of Watershed Management. "It underscores the strength of our financial stewardship and the collective effort of our team and partners. We are grateful to Mayor Andre Dickens for his leadership and continued support in advancing critical infrastructure improvements across Atlanta."

The improved rating follows the City's continued progress completing federally required clean water projects and advancing a more manageable long-term capital improvement strategy. These efforts reduce risk, strengthen system performance and support long-term sustainability.

DWM provides drinking water and wastewater services to more than 1.2 million people across the region. Reliable infrastructure at this scale is essential not only for daily service, but for economic growth, neighborhood stability and public health.

Just less than two years ago, Fitch upgraded the City of Atlanta's Issuer Default Rating from AA+ to AAA-the highest in the City's history.

The rating upgrade also signals confidence in the City's disciplined financial planning and its ability to maintain essential infrastructure responsibly over time.

Through continued investment, coordinated leadership and careful oversight, Atlanta is strengthening the systems residents rely on every day while building a more resilient future for the city.

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For more information about the City of Atlanta, please visit https://www.atlantaga.gov or watch City Channel 26. Follow the City of Atlanta on Facebook and Twitter @CityofAtlanta.