Newell Creek Pipeline Replacement Project — Felton/Graham Hill
Project Overview
The Santa Cruz Water Department will relocate 3.7 miles of the Newell Creek Pipeline out of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and under Graham Hill Road, avoiding more environmentally sensitive areas and geologic hazards that have caused past breaks.
The Newell Creek pipeline transports water between Loch Lomond Reservoir, the City’s reservoir, and the Graham Hill Water Treatment Plant. This project ensures continued reliability of this critical water supply pipeline.
The work will occur from the intersection between Graham Hill Road and East Zayante Road in Felton, down Graham Hill Road to Henry Cowell Drive.
Water service is not anticipated to be interrupted by this project.
Project Schedule
- Planning: September 2019-May 2020 (complete)
- Design: December 2020-August 2023 (complete)
- EIR: 2021 (complete)
- Bid Solicitation: Spring 2024 - Summer 2024 (complete)
- Construction: March 2025 - December 2026 (in progress)
Work will occur from the intersection between Graham Hill Road and East Zayante Road in Felton, down Graham Hill Road to Henry Cowell Drive. Construction will occur weekdays.
Traffic control on Graham Hill Road: Weekdays 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Work not requiring traffic control: Weekdays 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Portable changeable message signs will be updated at least one week in advance to reflect any changes to the work schedule. Temporary traffic delays are expected.
A virtual community meeting about the project was held on Wednesday, March 12. Watch the community meeting here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Newell Creek Pipeline?
The Newell Creek Pipeline transports water between Loch Lomond Reservoir, the City’s raw water reservoir, and the Graham Hill Water Treatment Plant. Constructed in 1960 and extending 9.5 miles from the toe of the Newell Creek Dam to the Graham Hill Water Treatment Plant, the pipeline is critical to supply the water system during dry seasons as well as during storm events.