CONGRESSMAN GRAY APPLAUDS $255 MILLION FEDERAL CONTRACT FOR VALLEY WATER

MERCED, CA – This week, the Bureau of Reclamation announced a $255 million contract awarded for Phase 2 of the B.F. Sisk Safety of Dams Modification Project in Los Banos. Once completed, the project will reinforce the dam’s stability infrastructure, raise the crest of the dam, and alleviate downstream public safety concerns. 

“The Central Valley produces more food for this country than any other region, but bureaucrats have tried for years to divert our water from the producers who need it most,” said Congressman Gray. “The Bureau of Reclamation’s announcement that it will invest $255 million right here in Los Banos is an encouraging step toward securing reliable water for the Valley families and producers who need it.

“This will not be the last significant investment in Valley water we secure. I’m committed to bringing home more federal funds to strengthen our water infrastructure and expand supply.” 

The B.F. Sisk Dam was originally constructed in 1967 and is critical to delivering water to Valley farms and broader California communities. The dam is the largest offstream reservoir in the nation and is an integral part of both the Central Valley Project and State Water Project.

Located on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley, the dam sits on a seismic area that makes it vulnerable to damage in an earthquake. The modification project will support reinforcement of the dam and protect Valley water in the event of an earthquake.

To learn more about the B.F. Sisk Safety of Dams Modification Project, visit the Bureau of Reclamation’s Region 10 project index.

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