Santa Clara Valley Water District Backs Delta Tunnel Project

The Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) has voted to allocate $9.69 million for planning the controversial Delta Conveyance Project (DCP), despite significant opposition from local communities and environmental groups. Critics, including the Delta Counties Coalition, argue that the project will have destructive impacts on aquatic and terrestrial environments, threaten endangered fish species, and exacerbate conflicts over water resource management. Proponents, including SCVWD Board Chair Tony Estremera, contend that the project is essential for improving water reliability in Silicon Valley, especially as the region relies on imported water. The DCP aims to build a 45-mile tunnel to divert water from the Sacramento River to Southern California, a plan supported by several local agencies despite its projected $20 billion cost. Opponents are calling for investments in water conservation and recycling instead of the tunnel, which they believe will harm the Delta's ecosystem and communities. The board's decision reflects a broader trend among California water agencies to secure long-term water supply solutions amidst ongoing climate challenges.