San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) has begun construction on more than $13 million in crucial pipeline infrastructure and water tank replacement projects that will enhance the water system’s reliability and improve support for firefighting.
The projects represent a significant investment in the community’s water supply infrastructure.
“We are thrilled to get to work on these vital infrastructure projects that reflect our commitment to providing high-quality water services to the San Lorenzo Valley community,” said Rick Rogers, general manager of the San Lorenzo Valley Water District. “This is possibly the largest improvement project the District has ever taken on. The replacement of aged and undersized infrastructure will also greatly improve support for future firefighting efforts in the San Lorenzo Valley.”
The work is a key component of the District’s Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), funded through grants, bank loans and ratepayer fees. The CIP projects stretch across the SLVWD’s broad service area and include:
- Blue Ridge Tank Replacement Project: This project replaces an existing undersized, leaking redwood tank in Boulder Creek that holds 40,000 gallons of water. The new steel tank will hold 120,000 gallons of water, greatly increasing the amount of water available for firefighting purposes.
- Juanita Woods Mainline Replacement Project: This project replaces aging mainlines in the Juanita Woods area. This will optimize water delivery and enhance system resilience to ensure uninterrupted service during peak demand periods.
- Lyon & Big Steel Zone Pipeline Improvement Project: This project improves the water distribution system in this critical region. The installation of advanced pipelines and monitoring systems will increase water flow efficiency, bolster firefighting capabilities and optimize water pressure to meet the growing demands of the community.
- Alta Via/Monan Main Replacement: This project replaces water lines in the Brookdale area that were destroyed in 2020 by the CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Fire hydrants will be replaced and 40 residential water service lines will be relocated or reconnected.
- Orman Road Mainline Replacement Project: This project represents a proactive approach to upgrade critical water infrastructure along Orman Road. By replacing outdated pipelines and implementing state-of-the-art technologies, the District will minimize water loss, decrease repair frequency and create a more robust water distribution network.
- Zayante Drive Mainline Replacement Project: This project is a key initiative to revitalize the water delivery system along Zayante Drive. The project will enhance water pressure and optimize water supply reliability. The upgraded pipeline network will contribute significantly to water conservation efforts and long-term sustainability.
- Hermosa Avenue Mainline Replacement Project: This project will modernize and replace aging pipelines along Hermosa Avenue. This essential undertaking will improve water flow efficiency, reduce leaks and enhance the overall infrastructure’s resilience to meet the community’s needs now and in the future.
Two projects have recently been completed:
- Redwood Park Pipeline Replacement: This project involved the replacement of aging pipelines in the Redwood Park area, addressing issues related to water loss and system integrity. By upgrading these pipelines with modern materials and construction techniques, the District aims to enhance water delivery, reduce maintenance costs and minimize potential disruptions to the community.
- Glen Arbor Bridge Main Replacement: This was the first project completed as part of the CIP work, replacing undersized and leaking water main under Glen Arbor Road bridge in Ben Lomond.
San Lorenzo Valley Water District serves more than 7,500 metered connections and supplies water to the communities of Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Ben Lomond, Zayante, Quail Hollow, Scotts Valley, Whispering Pines, Manana Woods and Felton. For details and updates, visit slvwd.com/projects.
