A lot of infrastructure of all types in the United States is in pretty bad condition. But water infrastructure is probably the country’s most pressing infrastructure need simply because everyone needs clean water.

According to a recent poll by the Value of Water Campaign, 85 percent of those surveyed support increasing federal water infrastructure investment in the United States, with most indicating a willingness to pay more for improved water service. But overwhelmingly, respondents indicated they want the government to address the issue. More than two-thirds (68 percent) support investment in water infrastructure at the national, state and local levels — even when told the cost is $1.2 trillion.

But unless voters decide to raise taxes, invite more private investment or both, the needed projects won’t materialize. Part of the problem with funding needed infrastructure is consumers have grown so used to inexpensive water — water as a human right — that the c