Congressman DeSaulnier Passes Legislation to Help Upgrade the Contra Costa Canal

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier's effort to help upgrade the Contra Costa Canal System as part of a bipartisan public lands and conservation package (S. 47) was passed in the U.S House of Representatives. DeSaulnier's bill, the Contra Costa Canal Transfer Act (H.R. 432), would transfer the title of the canal system from the Bureau of Reclamation to the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), allowing the CCWD to invest in safety and environmental improvements to the canal's infrastructure. This package of bills passed the U.S. Senate, and now heads to the President's desk for signature.

"The aging Contra Costa Canal has long been in need of critical safety and structural improvements," said Congressman DeSaulnier. "Transferring ownership of the canal will allow for the land around the canal to be revitalized for recreational use. I am pleased that our effort will enable the Contra Costa Water District to implement changes that will prevent future accidents, water leaks, and contamination, and is one step closer to becoming law."

Built between 1937 and 1948, the Contra Costa Canal delivers water both to homes and businesses throughout Contra Costa County, and also to the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys for irrigation. The 48-mile canal system is currently exposed, but following the transfer CCWD will work to enclose it in a surface tunnel. Since the Contra Costa Canal has been operational, 81 people have drowned in the canal. The Contra Costa Canal Transfer Act would help prevent these accidents, and improve recreation and land use in and around the canal system by revitalizing land located in the Concord Naval Weapons Station.

"Passing this bill paves the way for us to own the canal system that our customers have invested in and depended upon for reliable water service for over 80 years. With ownership, we can modernize the system to protect water quality, improve safety and meet customer needs for the next 100 years," said Lisa Borba, Contra Costa Water District Board President. "We appreciate the leadership from Senator Feinstein and Congressman DeSaulnier to reach this successful outcome."

Senator Dianne Feinstein authored companion legislation in the Senate. A previous version of this bill, also authored by Congressman DeSaulnier, passed unanimously in the U.S. House of Representatives last year.

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