10/07/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/07/2025 20:27
Gilbert, Ariz.- The Town of Gilbert has reached a major milestone in its commitment to delivering safe, reliable water to residents and businesses now and into the future. On October 7, 2025, town officials and project partners marked the 50% completion of the multi-phase reconstruction of the North Water Treatment Plant, which supplies drinking water to most of Gilbert's residents and businesses.
The plant processes surface water from the Salt, Verde, and Colorado rivers through the Eastern Canal and converts it into clean drinking water. This water is thoroughly screened, treated, filtered, and tested to ensure it meets the highest quality standards.
"This council has fully embraced the imperative need to plan for Gilbert's future. One of the many ways they've done this is by making the decision to invest in this water treatment plant. Our water rates are a significant funding source for this critically important facility, and it could not be built or completed without them," said Assistant Town Manager Leah Rhineheimer.
"Ultimately, this water treatment plant is about partnering with our community and about serving our community," she added.
The $692 million project, which began in March 2022, is funded through bonds, replacement funds, and system development fees. Once completed by winter 2028, the upgraded plant will:
Serve up to 250,000 residents and businesses, a significant increase from the current 144,000
Increase production from 45 to 60 million gallons per day
Provide over 70% of Gilbert's water supply
Meet or exceed national water quality standards
Reduce reliance on non-renewable water sources
Support long-term population growth
Deliver a 50+ year service life
"Reaching the midway milestone is a major accomplishment and reinforces that we're making strong progress toward our long-term goals for our community. The project has remained on schedule and within budget, which is a testament to the team's focus and hard work. As we enter the second half of the project, our team is committed to continuing to support one another and work together, ensuring a successful finish," said Gilbert's Senior Project Manager, Sarah Rogowski.
Upgrades are designed to address water quality challenges, accommodate population growth, and maximize the use of renewable water resources, ensuring a sustainable future for Gilbert.
Get an inside look at the project's progresshere.
Learn more about this project atgilbertaz.gov/WA1589.