What's Happening?
The Town of Queen Creek, Arizona, is advancing its water self-sufficiency strategy by securing a $90 million loan from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA). This funding will support the town's efforts to develop new water sources, including
the purchase of 500,000-acre feet of water from Harquahala Valley. This acquisition is part of a broader plan to diversify Queen Creek's water supply and reduce reliance on local groundwater. The town's water portfolio is now 90% drought-proof, with only 6% dependent on local groundwater pumping. The loan terms include a 30-year repayment period with an interest rate of 3.9%.
Why It's Important?
Queen Creek's initiative to secure a reliable water supply is crucial in the context of increasing water scarcity and climate change. By investing in long-term water resources, the town aims to protect its residents and businesses from the impacts of drought and water shortages. This strategy not only ensures a stable water supply but also positions Queen Creek as a leader in sustainable water management. The financial backing from WIFA underscores the importance of proactive water planning and could serve as a model for other municipalities facing similar challenges.
What's Next?
As Queen Creek continues to implement its water self-sufficiency strategy, the town will focus on infrastructure development to transport water from Harquahala Valley. The transition to a designated water provider will involve creating a water resource fee to replace existing replenishment fees, ensuring sustainable funding for water management. Public engagement and transparency will be key as the town navigates these changes, with a public fee-setting process anticipated in fall 2026. The success of this initiative could influence water policy and management practices across Arizona and beyond.
