Water District Plans $43M Expansion to Increase Daily Supply to 5500000 Gallons

Summit County is taking significant steps to enhance its water supply capacity, with plans to expand production from 2.6 million gallons per day to 5.5 million gallons. During a recent County Council meeting, officials discussed a proposed project estimated to cost over $34 million, with a request for funding up to $43 million to cover potential cost overruns and tariffs.

The project will be primarily financed through a Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan, which is expected to cover approximately 80% of the total costs. The remaining 20% will be sourced from district funds, including impact fees and reserves. This strategic financial approach allows for a long amortization period, delaying payments until five years after the project's substantial completion, which is designed to ease initial rate increases for residents.

Council members reviewed a presentation detailing the project's financial structure and its necessity in addressing the growing challenges to the county's water supply. The expansion is crucial as the demand for water continues to rise, and the current sources are becoming increasingly strained.

As the council moves forward, the focus will remain on securing the necessary funding and ensuring that the project meets the community's long-term water needs. This initiative not only aims to bolster the county's infrastructure but also to provide a sustainable solution for future water supply challenges.