Building tomorrow’s water infrastructure: Insights from the Pacific Northwest’s largest water conveyance program

As communities across Oregon face mounting challenges from aging infrastructure, climate change, and population growth, the Pacific Northwest’s Willamette Water Supply Program (WWSP) shows how long-term planning and engineering innovation can deliver solutions. This $1.6 billion program is one of the most ambitious water infrastructure projects in the region’s history.

A recent article in Water Online, authored by Carollo’s Erik Peters, Mike Warriner, and Scott Gibson, details the WWSP’s comprehensive strategy to meet growing water demands while enhancing system reliability. At the heart of the program is a new 60-million-gallon-per-day (mgd) water treatment plant, expandable to 120 mgd, supported by over 30 miles of seismically resilient pipelines and a 15-million-gallon terminal storage reservoir.

A Regional Approach to Water Supply and Resilience

Carollo, in partnership with Stantec, is leading the program’s construction and program management. The phased construction plan is designed to streamline commissioning and reduce disruptions. To strengthen public trust, project leaders worked closely with local farmers and governments to minimize land use impacts and align pipeline routing with future development plans.

The WWSP prioritized local hiring, engaging contractors and tradespeople from the surrounding region. This community-first approach not only supports the local economy but fosters a sense of shared investment in the system’s long-term success.

A Model for Utility Planning and Water Infrastructure Delivery

With construction nearing completion and first water deliveries scheduled for early 2026, the program is already being recognized for its discipline and efficiency. Change orders have remained at just 1%, a rare achievement for a project of this scale. Once operational, the system will provide high-quality drinking water, increased source redundancy, and lasting value for the region’s growing population.

Read the full article on Water Online to explore how the WWSP is setting a new standard for resilient, community-focused water infrastructure.