Projects
See GLWA’s ongoing investments that strengthen infrastructure and support regional growth.
What We Do
GLWA helps ensure the water reaching your home meets treatment standards beyond state and federal requirements, and after it’s used, we treat it again before safely returning it to the environment.
Our Story
Founded in 2016, the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) is dedicated to efficiently delivering the nation’s best water and wastewater services to communities across southeast Michigan. Solidifying this commitment to stewardship and community, GLWA sees its team as guardians and defenders of public health, with a diverse workforce that reflects the very communities they serve.
Today, GLWA is a 'Hub Utility' that brings people together around the science of water, fostering regional collaboration and national partnerships to drive innovation and address complex water challenges and constantly improve its processes. Always looking forward, GLWA is preparing for a strong future by building resilient infrastructure and educating the next generation of water guardians.
200
Tests performed annually to regulate water quality
35
Awards earned for water research and innovation
3.9
3.9 million individuals use GLWA’s water services
Our mission is to deliver safe, reliable water services that support strong communities and protect our environment for generations to come.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Great Lakes Water Authority
- GLWA operates and maintains major treatment plants, facilities, and large-scale regional infrastructure.
- GLWA provides regional water and wastewater treatment services for communities across Southeast Michigan.
- GLWA works collaboratively with member communities to ensure reliable and high-quality water services.
- GLWA plans and funds long-term capital improvements to strengthen the regional water and wastewater systems.
Detroit Water and Sewage Department
- DWSD operates Detroit’s local water and sewer systems and serves residential and commercial customers in the city.
- DWSD manages billing and provides customer service for water and wastewater accounts in Detroit.
- DWSD administers payment plans and affordability programs for eligible customers.
- DWSD retains ownership of Detroit’s water and sewer infrastructure, including mains and sewer lines.
YEAR IN REVIEW
Explore the work happening behind the scenes to deliver safe, reliable water every day. Each report highlights key accomplishments, financial performance, and progress toward long-term infrastructure, research, and innovation goals.
My leadership growth within GLWA, over the last decade, has taught me the importance of thoughtful planning and proactive management make the difference between resilience and costly failure. Our team’s task of sewer and storm water management of the conveyance system is protecting communities, infrastructure and the environment.
David McCord
Director, Wastewater Conveyance and CSO
