Friday, August 1, 2008

Water pipeline costs double to $1 billion


The 139-mile pipeline to carry water from Lake Powell across northern Arizona to southwest Utah is now projected to cost $1 billion, double the cost estimate of just a few years ago. The pipeline would carry 10,000 acre-feet per year from the lake, part of Utah's allocation of Colorado River water.

The Arizona Republic reports that northern Arizona towns like Flagstaff and Prescott are hoping for resolution of Navajo Nation water issues that could bring federal funds for the pipeline and possible use of Lake Powell water for Arizona communities.