After a groundbreaking Tuesday, San Juan Bautista is finally moving ahead with its water infrastructure project with funding from an $11.1 million, 35-year bond.
The infrastructure improvements - at an estimated $9.8 million - will feature a new reservoir, a distribution and wastewater line, a water-pellet softening system and a reconstruction of Fourth Street. Currently, Fourth Street houses the main sewer line. Along with replacing the infrastructure underneath the street, new curb and gutter will be installed above, said contracted special projects manager Mike Davis.
San Benito County Supervisor Anthony Botelho, who represents the city on the board, said San Juan is in desperate need of the upgrades.
"We're pleased that San Juan can move forward with their water project," he said. "Their system was failing. They need these upgrades to better serve the city of San Juan and its current and future citizens."
The improvements to the water infrastructure of San Juan will not only help the quality of drinking water in the city, but it also will be a boost in emergency situations, Davis said. With the bigger reservoir, he said there will be less concern about water for fires.
Along with more capacity, Davis said the project will "provide a better product to customers, so they won't have to rely on household water softeners." The city's chloride levels in wastewater should be acceptable as well, thanks to the softening system.
Davis said the improvements will be completed by late summer or early fall of 2009 and will greatly improve water quality for the 710 hook-ups in the city.
San Juan had been slated in 2005 for partial funding from the federal government, but the U.S. Economic Development Administration revoked it in 2007.
The city obtained the bond after receiving an "A-" bond rating from S&P.
Colin McConville Colin McConville is a reporter with the Hollister Free Lance. You can reach him by email or at (831) 637-5566.
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