Yorba Linda, CA – The Yorba Linda Water District (YLWD/District) has been awarded $1.105 million in federal funding to advance the design of Well 23, a critical groundwater infrastructure project that will strengthen local water reliability and reduce dependence on imported water supplies.
The funding was approved through the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, which was signed into law by President Trump on January 23. The allocation was secured with the support of Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-40) as part of Community Project Funding, also known as Congressionally Directed Spending. The funding will be administered through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) under “Yorba Linda, Section 219, CA.”
Earlier this year, Rep. Kim voted to advance a three-bill Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations minibus package focused on public safety, water reliability, and critical community investments across Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. Funding for Well 23 reflects her ongoing efforts to deliver meaningful infrastructure improvements for California’s 40th District.
“Reliable, locally sourced water is foundational to affordability and public safety in Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties,” said Rep. Young Kim. “Well 23 is a strategic investment that will increase local groundwater production, reduce reliance on imported water from the Colorado River and State Water Project, and strengthen Southern California’s resilience to drought conditions. By investing in local solutions like Well 23, we are protecting ratepayers, supporting economic growth, and ensuring our communities have the stable water supply they need for generations to come.”
The $1.105 million federal allocation, combined with YLWD’s required 25 percent local cost share, will fund the design phase of Well 23 and formally initiate the “new start” of the federally-funded, cost-shared project. Construction funding will be sought through future federal appropriations.
Once completed, Well 23 will become the 11th groundwater well owned and operated by YLWD, further strengthening the District’s water supply portfolio. YLWD has made significant long-term investments in its water system and manages more than 56,000 individual assets valued at approximately $1.34 billion, ensuring reliable service for the community.
YLWD General Manager was notified directly by Rep. Kim of the federal funding award, marking a major milestone after more than two years of coordination and advocacy.
“As a Veteran, this significant federal funding in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is especially meaningful to me given my 35 year career with the Corps prior to joining YLWD,” said Mark Toy, YLWD General Manager. “This first increment of money initiates the critical ‘new start’ of this federally-funded, cost-shared project and paves the way for a long-term association with USACE for the design and construction of the groundwater well. Moreover, the YLWD Board of Directors is positioned for greater financial flexibility for future Capital Improvement Program decisions. Most importantly, our customers are the ones who will benefit as we continue to stay true to YLWD’s mission.”
YLWD credits the success of this effort to the collaborative work of its Engineering and Public Affairs teams, as well as Townsend Public Affairs, with special recognition to Ben Goldeen for his dedication and support throughout the federal funding process.
At its core, the Well 23 project reinforces YLWD’s commitment to responsibly managing water resources, investing in essential and critical infrastructure, and delivering lasting value to the community. To learn more about Yorba Linda Water District, upcoming projects, and events, visit www.ylwd.com or follow the District on social media. |
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