Sites Reservoir Project Moves Forward with Key Developments

News Summary

The Sites Reservoir Project is making significant strides towards construction, with key advancements from the Sites Project Authority. Selection of a Construction Manager at Risk is in progress, aiming for completion by the end of the year. The project has also secured vital environmental permits. This initiative seeks to enhance California’s water supply reliability amidst ongoing climate challenges, addressing the urgent need for improved water storage and management.

Sites Reservoir Project Advances Toward Construction with Key Permits and Contractor Selection

The Sites Reservoir Project is one step closer to breaking ground as the Sites Project Authority announces major advancements that could lead to construction by the end of 2026. This initiative aims to enhance California’s water supply reliability, especially during dry periods, by providing an additional 1.5 million acre-feet of water storage capacity.

The Authority is currently reviewing a short list of qualified applicants for the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contract, a significant milestone in the project’s planning phase. The procurement process for the CMAR began earlier this year, wherein detailed proposals were requested from shortlisted candidates. A decision on selecting the CMAR contractor is expected later this year, which is crucial for keeping the project on schedule.

This structured procurement approach is designed to ensure value for both the project and the local community. By focusing on competitive bids, the Authority hopes to enhance cost efficiency and quality, a necessity for a project of this scale. With the urgency for increased water storage highlighted by California Governor Gavin Newsom, the Sites Reservoir emerges as a vital solution amid frequent droughts and unpredictable climate patterns.

Another significant advancement in the planning of the Sites Reservoir Project involves the successful acquisition of essential permits. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) released a biological opinion for the project. This analysis evaluates the potential impacts of construction on endangered and threatened species, which is a critical step in ensuring environmental compliance.

Additionally, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) granted the Master Streambed Alteration Agreement, which allows for necessary modifications to local waterways during construction. The Authority’s Environmental Planning and Permitting Manager expressed optimism regarding the progress of these key permits, as they are essential for authorizing construction by state and federal agencies.

In late 2024, the Sites Project received two Incidental Take Permits (ITPs) from CDFW. These permits were crucial as they ensure compliance with endangered species laws during both construction and operation phases of the reservoir, reducing potential environmental impact.

The proposed Sites Reservoir will be located off-stream, north of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Its positioning is intended to provide significant environmental benefits during periods of drought, as it could help regulate water flow and support local ecosystems. Past environmental assessments conducted from 2020 to 2023 faced challenges, including a lawsuit from environmental groups who were concerned about the project’s potential impact on the Sacramento River ecosystem and fish populations.

Despite these legal challenges, the Sites Project Authority successfully resolved all issues in favor of the project. This resolution confirms the project’s compliance with applicable state environmental laws and helps move forward with construction planning.

As California continues to deal with water scarcity, projects like the Sites Reservoir are increasingly vital. Enhanced water storage capacity will not only provide immediate benefits but is also essential for long-term resilience against climate extremes. The advancements announced by the Sites Project Authority highlight the commitment to addressing California’s water needs while balancing environmental considerations.

As the Authority moves forward with the selection of a CMAR contractor and navigates the final stages of permitting, stakeholders will be watching closely. The successful completion of the Sites Reservoir has the potential to be a significant contributor to California’s water management strategy.

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Additional Resources

• Maven’s Notebook: Sites Reservoir Advances Toward Construction
• Courthouse News: California Sites Reservoir Project Hits Troubled Waters
• CBS News: Newsom & Sites Reservoir Update
• Wikipedia: Sites Reservoir
• Google Search: California Water Projects