East County Advanced Water Purification Program Construction Update

The East County Advanced Water Purification (East County AWP) has made significant progress since breaking ground on construction nearly two years ago. The Program will create a local, clean, safe and drought-proof drinking water supply using state-of-the-art technology to purify East San Diego County's recycled water.

In a major milestone for the Program, the Division of Drinking Water has conditionally accepted the Program's Title 22 Engineering Report, which outlines how treated and recycled water will be discharged in compliance with California regulations. The Report process included conducting public hearings with the Division of Drinking Water and producing an over 500-page engineering report.

Construction of the East County Advanced Water Purification Program facilities and pipelines continues throughout East County. At the construction site north of Santee Lakes, more than 60 percent of the concrete has been poured for the water recycling, solids handling and advanced water purification facilities. Once complete, 52,400 cubic yards of concrete will be poured, enough to fill 16 Olympic sized swimming pools. Roofing installation has began on the future Visitor's Center, which will house administrative offices, an operation control center, a new laboratory and a community room.

Construction of the 10.5 mile purified water pipeline continues with more than three miles of pipeline installed. Work is taking place on Mast Boulevard, and additional traffic impacts are expected beginning in April.

To keep up-to-date with all construction, project schedules and work descriptions, check the Program's interactive map on www.eastcountyawp.com.

This important water supply project is a collaborative partnership between Padre Dam, the County of San Diego, the City of El Cajon and Helix Water District. The Project is on track for purified water to flow from faucets beginning in 2026.