San Jose Advances Direct Potable Reuse Project with Demonstration Facility Plans

The Joint City Council and Santa Clara Valley Water District Board held a special meeting on August 19, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in the Direct Portable Reuse Project. The meeting focused on the development of a demonstration facility and the planning for a full-scale facility aimed at enhancing the region's potable water supply.

The meeting commenced with an overview of the project's two-phase approach. The first phase involves a pilot program designed to gather essential data for regulatory permits, followed by the establishment of a demonstration facility and learning center. The full-scale facility is projected to commence operations by late 2035, with an estimated cost of nearly $2 billion.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of the demonstration facility in expediting the permitting process for the full-scale project. This facility will conduct validation studies to ensure compliance with stringent direct potable reuse standards, focusing on the removal of pathogens and chemicals. Additionally, it will serve as a platform for evaluating advanced water treatment technologies and providing public education to foster community support.

Progress updates revealed that a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a design consultant has been released, and existing consultant agreements have been amended. The team has also engaged with regulators to develop a testing plan and a regulatory roadmap for future permit applications.

Eric Dunlavy, Deputy Director of the City of San Jose Environmental Services Department, reported on collaborative efforts with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). A workshop held in September 2024 included representatives from Valley Water, the City of San Jose, and the City of Santa Clara, resulting in SFPUC's expressed interest in joining the project. This collaboration is seen as vital for ensuring a reliable increase in potable water supply across the region.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the development of an exclusive negotiation agreement for the land designated for the full-scale facility. This agreement aims to protect the interests of both the city and Valley Water by ensuring that the land will not be available for other uses during negotiations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts and strategic planning underway to enhance water supply sustainability in Santa Clara County, with a focus on innovation and environmental stewardship. The next steps will involve continued collaboration among agencies and further development of the project framework.