Mojave Water Agency Begins Critical Infrastructure Project in Phelan by Mojave Water Agency Aug 4, 2025 Member Submitted News Mojave Water Agency (MWA) officially broke ground on the Mojave River Pipeline Traveling Screen Project today at a morning ceremony held at the project site in Phelan. The event marked a major milestone in the Agency’s ongoing mission to enhance regional water reliability and sustainability. “This project reflects our agency’s commitment to ensuring that every part of our service area has access to reliable, efficient, and resilient water systems,” said Roelle. “By restoring the Mojave River Pipeline and increasing recharge capacity, we’re preparing for both today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges.” Community members, elected officials, and local water partners, gathered at 11987 Duncan Road for the ceremonial turning of the first dirt. The event featured remarks from President Roelle, Project Manager Tesfaye Demissie, and representatives from each of the construction partners, who highlighted the project’s regional significance, particularly for the West Victorville and Phelan areas, both designated as severely disadvantaged communities. The $6.3 million project, awarded to Nicholas Construction, managed by Kennedy Jenks, and designed by Corollo Engineering, includes the installation of a state-of-the-art traveling screen facility to reduce moss and debris entering the pipeline. It also involves construction of a new two-acre groundwater recharge basin and expanded infrastructure to capture and store water during wet years. “This is the kind of investment that sets our region up for long-term success,” said Roelle. “We’re not just breaking ground, we’re building a stronger foundation for water security in communities that need it most.” The project is partially funded by $3.9 million in grant support from the California Department of Water Resources’ Urban and Multi-benefit Drought Relief Program and congressionally directed spending secured by Congressman Jay Obernolte through the EPA’s Community Grants Program for Stormwater Capture and Recharge. As a recipient of federal funds, MWA is also committed to compliance with the Build America, Buy America Act, supporting domestic manufacturing and job creation. Construction is expected to be completed by March 2026. For more information about the Mojave River Pipeline Traveling Screen Project or other MWA initiatives, visit www.mojavewater.org or contact the Public Information Office at (760) 946-7001. About Mojave Water Agency: Mojave Water Agency is a public agency responsible for managing and protecting water resources across a 4,900-square-mile region in Southern California’s High Desert. As a State Water Project contractor, MWA supports groundwater recharge, water conservation, infrastructure development, and long-term regional sustainability.
