South Lake Tahoe, CA (November 3, 2026) - South Tahoe Public Utility District completed a busy and productive 2026 construction season, investing $28 million in critical drinking water and wastewater infrastructure to improve reliability and prepare the community for the future.

The District invested $20 million in water system improvements, including new groundwater supply, water mains, storage tank rehabilitation, and the final phase of its water-meter installation program.

Key water-system projects included:

• Two new drinking water wells: The District drilled and installed two new, 500-foot-deep wells. Design and construction of the above-ground well houses and pumping equipment will be the next phase of work, with the goal of connecting the wells to the drinking water system within the next two to three years.
• 9,000 feet of new water main on Pioneer Trail: This major pipeline project will improve the District’s ability to move water throughout the system where it is needed and support water pressure for firefighting. Next summer, the District plans to install pressure-reducing valves to connect the new main to the system and repave roadways affected by construction.
• Recoating one of the District’s largest water storage tanks: This work extends the useful life of the tank by approximately 25 years. Water storage tanks are critical to maintaining adequate water supply and pressure, particularly during periods of peak demand. The District’s largest (2.3 million gallon) tank will be recoated next summer.
• Completion of residential water-meter installation: The District installed the remaining 75 residential water meters. A metered system helps the District meet state requirements, supports water conservation, and allows customers to track their water use.
• Emergency stand by power for the two largest drinking water wells: This project included the rehabilitation at one well, and back-up power that can be used at both wells to maintain water supply during power outages.

On the wastewater side, the District completed approximately $8 million in critical system improvements.

A major project was the successful lining of 8,000 feet of sewer main in the Tahoe Keys neighborhood. This trenchless method rehabilitated pipes from the inside, reducing the need for extensive excavation. The work is expected to extend the pipes’ service life by about 50 years and help prevent sewer spills into Lake Tahoe. This was the District’s first large-scale sewer-lining project, with more planned in the future.

District crews also work year-round to keep water and wastewater systems operating reliably. This includes responding to water leaks, cleaning the entire gravity sewer system to help prevent overflows, and using camera inspections to assess high-risk sewer lines to prioritize future repairs. The District also used satellite-based technology to identify water-main leaks early, helping reduce water loss and target maintenance where it is needed most.

“This summer’s construction work reflects the District’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the systems our community depends on every day,” said Megan Colvey, Director of Engineering. “Reliable drinking water and wastewater service cannot be taken for granted. Continued investment is essential as we address aging infrastructure, meet regulatory requirements, protect Lake Tahoe, and ensure our systems are ready to serve the community for decades to come.”

The District’s capital improvement program is a long-term investment in the health, safety, and resilience of the South Lake Tahoe community. While the projects completed this summer represent meaningful progress, substantial work remains. Visit www.stpud.us/capital-improvement-program for more information on the District’s long-term capital plan.