During the recent City Council meeting in Needles, a significant step was taken to enhance the community's water supply. The council approved a proposal from Phillips Excavation for the Well 11 to Well 15 intertie project, which aims to improve the city's water infrastructure. This decision comes in response to an emergency situation where two of the city's three wells were found to be contaminated, prompting an emergency declaration.
The project, which will construct a 16-inch transmission line to deliver raw water from Well 15 to the treatment facility, is fully funded by a grant from the California Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, totaling $478,506. This funding will allow the city to utilize all three wells, ensuring a more reliable water source for the community of approximately 5,200 residents.
City officials emphasized that while the wells are not contaminated in a traditional sense, they do contain manganese, which is regulated under California law. The project is expected to take about two months to complete, and once operational, it will provide a sustainable water source, reducing the risk of water shortages if one of the wells fails.
This initiative marks a proud moment for the community, as it strengthens the city's water supply and addresses critical public health needs. The council's decision reflects a commitment to ensuring that residents have access to safe and reliable drinking water, a fundamental necessity for any thriving community.