Imperial County officials unveiled the long-awaited Lithium Valley Specific Plan draft at a press conference on Friday, Feb. 7, in El Centro, marking a key milestone in the county’s effort to formalize the region’s future as a hub for lithium extraction and clean energy development. … Phase 1 of development includes:

• Roadway expansions to accommodate industrial traffic.
• A new rail network connecting to Union Pacific Railroad’s Calexico Subdivision.
• Broadband fiber installation to support digital connectivity.
• New wastewater treatment plants and stormwater drainage systems.