Growing Support for Delta Conveyance Highlights Urgency of Ensuring Affordable Water Reliability for 27 Million Californians
The Southern California Water Coalition (SCWC) acknowledges the three-party state budget agreement reached this week by Governor Newsom and legislative leaders for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. While the Governor’s proposal to streamline the Delta Conveyance Project (DCP) was not included in the initial budget package, momentum for the project is undeniable—and growing by the day among lawmakers, communities, and stakeholders who understand the stakes.
Charles Wilson, Executive Director of SCWC, issued the following statement:
“California cannot afford further delay in securing a safe, affordable, and reliable water supply for the 27 million people who depend on the State Water Project. The Delta Conveyance Project is a critical upgrade to this aging system—and each year of inaction drives up costs, increases risk, and weakens our ability to respond to drought, climate extremes, and future growth.”
“We are encouraged by the increasing support from both legislative leaders and communities across California who recognize that reliable water is the foundation of everything—public health, housing, clean energy, food security, and economic vitality. The legislative process is still very much alive, and we believe the case for DCP has never been stronger or more urgent.”
“We applaud Governor Newsom for his leadership and continued push to modernize the state’s water infrastructure. The DCP has undergone thorough environmental review, is rooted in science, and is fully consistent with the 2009 Delta Reform Act. It is a forward-looking investment that protects the future without compromising the Delta today.”
“Californians across regions, party lines, and sectors are coalescing around the need for action. The status quo is unsustainable. Together with our growing coalition of supporters, SCWC will keep working tirelessly this summer to move this vital project forward in the Legislature.”
SCWC remains committed to championing policies and infrastructure solutions that protect and enhance water reliability for all Californians—now and for generations to come.
The Southern California Water Coalition (SCWC) – established in 1984 – is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public education partnership dedicated to informing Southern Californians about our water needs and our state’s water resources.