Kern County Water Agency Urges Investment in Essential Infrastructure: The Delta Conveyance Project

BAKERSFIELD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Kern County Water Agency (Agency) has noted that the federal government has refused to direct additional funding towards the high-speed rail. The Agency strongly encourages elected officials to shift these infrastructure investment funds towards California’s proposed State Water Project (SWP), Delta Conveyance Project (DCP). The SWP supports a $2.3 trillion regional economy, delivers water to 27 million people, supports 750,000 acres of farmland, and sustains 8.7 million jobs and 800,000 businesses. It has delivered consistent, measurable benefits and remains a California essential infrastructure system, but one that is in serious need of investment and federal funding. In contrast, the high-speed rail project continues to face delays and cost overruns.

“The DCP will contribute greatly to the economic well-being of our state, and it is fundamental to our nation’s food security, business continuity, and environmental resilience. Conversely, high-speed rail has shown NO return on investment for the people. It is time to invest in infrastructure that helps to feed and power our nation,” said Gene Lundquist, Director of the Agency Board.

As infrastructure demands grow, the Agency calls for support of proven, effective water projects that safeguard long-term prosperity and food security, for California, the U.S. and the world.

The Kern County Water Agency (Agency) was created in 1961 by a special act of the State Legislature and serves as the local contracting entity for the State Water Project. The Agency, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011, participates in a wide scope of management activities, including water quality, flood control and groundwater operations to preserve and enhance Kern County’s water supply—the main ingredient for the well-being of an economy.