Austin Water officials reported significant progress in water conservation and reuse initiatives during the Integrated Water Resource Planning Community Task Force meeting on June 10, 2025. A key highlight was the completion of a feasibility study confirming that full subsidization for deeply affordable housing projects is achievable, contingent on amending the existing Go Purple pilot program to increase the project cap to $1.5 million.

The meeting revealed that while the number of new reclaimed water meters increased by two in the first quarter of 2025, the overall volume of reclaimed water usage saw a decline. This decrease was attributed to the completion of turf reestablishment at the Jimmy Clay Golf Course, which had previously required higher water usage.

Austin Water is also making strides in on-site water reuse, with three construction permits approved under the Go Purple program, which incentivizes water reuse in development plans. The program aims to expand the purple pipe system and enhance water supply, with five reclaimed projects currently in progress.

In terms of outreach, the department reported over 15 million impressions from conservation initiatives in the first quarter, focusing on winter leak prevention and promoting summer water conservation rebates. The majority of these impressions came from traditional media, with a smaller portion from social media and community events.

Overall, the meeting underscored Austin's commitment to sustainable water management, with ongoing efforts to enhance water conservation and reuse strategies as part of the Water Forward Plan. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of these initiatives and their impact on the community's water usage.