In a recent meeting of the Denton Public Utilities Board, significant discussions centered around the update of the City of Denton's Water Master Plan, which is crucial for managing the city's water infrastructure in light of rapid growth. The meeting, held on September 29, 2025, highlighted the need for an updated plan due to discrepancies between previous growth projections and current trends.

Kyle Pedego, the Planning and Engineering Division Manager for Water Utilities, presented the updated Water Master Plan, which is intended to address the imbalances in growth trends observed since the last plan was adopted in December 2018. The original plan underestimated growth in the outer regions of Denton, particularly driven by industrial developments, while overestimating growth in the city’s core areas. This miscalculation has led to a pressing need for enhanced water treatment and conveyance infrastructure.

The updated plan forecasts an 8.6% growth rate over the next five years, tapering to 2% over the next 25 years. This projection is based on a combination of internal data, historical trends, and comprehensive planning efforts. The board discussed the implications of these growth rates, noting that the capital improvement plan must adapt to ensure adequate water supply and quality for the expanding population.

A stark contrast was drawn between the projected costs of the 2018 plan, estimated at $245 million, and the current update, which anticipates costs soaring to $1.124 billion. This increase is attributed to inflation, material shortages, and the accelerated growth in the outer regions of the city, necessitating more extensive infrastructure improvements than previously planned.

The board unanimously approved several items on the agenda, including the motion to recommend the updated Water Master Plan to the City Council for consideration. This step is critical as it sets the stage for future investments in Denton's water infrastructure, ensuring that the city can meet the demands of its growing population.

As the board moves forward, the next steps involve presenting the updated plan to the City Council on September 30 for final approval. The discussions during this meeting underscore the importance of proactive planning in managing Denton's water resources effectively, particularly in the face of rapid urban development.