NorCals’s New $4 Billion Reservoir Clears Major Legal Hurdle
The Sites Reservoir project, a major water storage initiative in California, has overcome a significant legal obstacle following a recent appellate court decision. This marks another victory for the project, which the state fast-tracked last year by streamlining the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process.
The ruling by the Third District Court of Appeal, made within 256 days, builds on an earlier trial court decision from June 4, 2024, clearing the way for the reservoir’s development. The expedited timeline was part of California’s new infrastructure streamlining law, which mandates courts to resolve CEQA challenges within 270 days, where possible.
“We can’t waste anymore time with frivolous lawsuits to hold up major infrastructure projects, especially building more water storage,” Governor Newsom said. “The Sites Reservoir project will capture more rain and snow to supply millions of homes with clean drinking water.”
The Sites Reservoir is designed to capture water during wet seasons and store it for drier times, holding up to 1.5 million acre-feet of water—enough to supply 3 million households annually. It has received $46.75 million in early state funding and is eligible for $875.4 million in Proposition 1 funding, with a total estimated cost of $4 billion.
The project plays a crucial role in California’s Water Supply Strategy, aiming to increase water storage capacity by 4 million acre-feet, helping the state adapt to climate change and water scarcity. More details about the project can be found at build.ca.gov.
