Today, the Southern California Water Coalition joined a broad and diverse alliance of water agencies, business leaders, labor unions, housing advocates, and social justice organizations at the State Capitol to express strong support for the Delta Conveyance Project and the budget trailer bill proposed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
The coalition’s presence at a press event and in one-on-one meetings with legislators highlighted the urgent need to modernize California’s water infrastructure. At the heart of this effort is the State Water Project — a vital system that delivers water to 27 million Californians and irrigates 750,000 acres of farmland. The Delta Conveyance Project, identified by the Department of Water Resources as the single most effective climate adaptation strategy for California’s water system, is a key component of this modernization.
Speakers emphasized that the proposed legislation would streamline permitting, confirm funding authority, and reduce costly delays caused by litigation — all while preserving rigorous environmental review and public engagement.
California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot underscored the urgency:
“Modernizing this system is not just about climate resilience — it’s about keeping water affordable and accessible for the millions of people who need it most.”
Assemblywoman Tina McKinnor added a compelling call to action:
“California doesn’t need to be in an emergency every time there is a drought. We must follow through with real investments to repair the State Water Project and advance the Delta Conveyance Project.”
Jennifer Pierre, General Manager of the State Water Contractors, highlighted the foundational role of the State Water Project in California’s economy and environment:
“It must be repaired to avoid water supply disruption,” she said, noting its importance to disadvantaged communities, electric grid reliability, recreation, and flood control.
Jim Wunderman, CEO of the Bay Area Council, urged lawmakers to act to ensure water supply doesn’t hinder the state’s housing goals:
“Housing abundance requires water abundance.”
Tracy Hernandez, CEO of BizFed, emphasized the financial impact of delays:
“It’s time to vote yes on much-needed water infrastructure repairs and reliable water supplies.”
Martin Ludlow of Groundswell, a statewide coalition of civil rights advocates, clergy, civic leaders, labor unions, and housing organizations, spoke to the equity implications:
“By moving the Delta Conveyance Project forward, California is making a commitment to protecting the State Water Project and the communities that rely on this system for their water.”
Mark Mulliner, representing the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California, added:
“No piece of infrastructure is more fundamental to California’s future than the State Water Project, and the budget trailer bill represents a critical step in protecting it.”
SCWC urges all Californians to engage with their state legislators in support of this initiative.
“Now is the time for all stakeholders to come together and advocate for the Delta Conveyance Project,” said SCWC Executive Director and CEO Charley Wilson.
“We need to ensure our voices are heard in the legislature and that we move forward with this critical project.”