In a proactive move to safeguard the water supply for more than 650,000 residents, Davis County has launched the seismic resilience upgrade to its aqueduct system—an $81 million project aimed at preparing critical infrastructure for potential earthquakes. Spearheaded by the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District (WBWCD), this initiative focuses on modernizing the Davis Aqueduct, originally built in the 1950s, to withstand the seismic activity that is a known risk along Utah's Wasatch Front.
Backed by a $24 million grant from the Utah Division of Water Resources, the project involves a wide-ranging collaboration with the Utah Geological Survey and Envision Utah. The primary goal is simple but vital: upgrade aging infrastructure with advanced seismic-resistant technologies to ensure water security in the face of natural disasters.
“This project is a testament to Utah's commitment to creating a resilient water future," said Candice Hasenyager, director of the Division of Water Resources. "It’s the result of collaborative planning and forward-thinking that will protect not just our water, but our communities."
The comprehensive upgrade centers on the installation of a new large-diameter steel pipeline—about 2.2 miles long and 72 inches in diameter—that will serve both treated water for culinary purposes and secondary irrigation. The enhancements also include two new pump stations designed to allow for movement in the event of an earthquake, ensuring uninterrupted water service when it's needed most.
Kicking off construction with a ceremonial pipe signing, state legislators, WBWCD representatives, and other key partners gathered to underscore the critical teamwork behind the project. The contract for the pipeline construction was awarded to Whitaker Construction, with a completion timeline set for 24 months. When finished, the pipeline will integrate directly into the North Davis Water Treatment Plant, strengthening the region’s overall water infrastructure and delivering long-term resilience for one of Utah’s fastest-growing counties.
