Big Mesa water projects face ballooning costs
In 2024, Mesa officials expect to lose 7,000 acre-feet, or 16%, of the city’s share of Colorado River water due to drought contingency measures. It’s about 8% of Mesa’s total water consumption, but Mesa Water Director Chris Hassert said, “We will offset that entire 7,000- acre foot cut with the flip of a switch” once the city completes the Central Mesa Reuse Pipeline to increase water exchanges with the Gila River Indian Community. So, the good news is Mesa has a plan. The bad news is, costs for this and other water projects have skyrocketed in a matter of months, complicating efforts to get them done in the desired time frames.