Sunday, February 9, 2025

Water Reservoir Project gains federal authorization

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WASHINGTON — A new water reservoir project in Chelan secured federal authorization as part of broader water resources legislation, marking a significant step toward addressing the city's wildfire preparedness and water supply challenges.

The authorization was included in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024, which passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The provision, championed by Rep. Kim Schrier, D-Wash., authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to proceed with design and construction of the East Chelan water reservoir.

"I've heard directly from local officials and my constituents in the Lake Chelan area on how impactful a water reservoir for the east side of town would be," Schrier said. "The reservoir would provide a critical, dependable source in case of a wildfire and serve as a water supply for future development in the area while reducing water infrastructure costs."

The project aims to address critical vulnerabilities in Chelan's current water system, which relies entirely on booster pump stations to distribute water from Lake Chelan across elevation changes. Officials say power outages or pump failures could leave the east side of the city without water for firefighting and daily use.

Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle praised the congressional delegation's efforts. "We are incredibly thankful for the support of Representative Schrier, Senator Murray, and Senator Cantwell," McCardle said. "Their efforts have been pivotal to realizing the inclusion of the East Chelan Water Reservoir project in the bill."

The authorization is a crucial prerequisite for accessing future funding through the Army Corps of Engineers' Environmental Infrastructure program. Without this legislative approval, the project would be ineligible for federal funding through this channel.

Before reaching President Biden's desk, the legislation must first clear the Senate. Rep. Schrier's office indicated she will continue advocating for project funding once the authorization is finalized.

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