LOS ANGELES, Calif., July 29, 2002 -- The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) recently marked the completion of the Hollywood Water Quality Improvement Project, an award-winning water quality initiative that will now supply a safer and more dependable water supply to more than a half million residents in the Hollywood service area.
The $85 million project, coming to a conclusion after more than a decade of working with Hollywood residents and four years of construction, was developed in compliance with federal and state water quality regulations. It is the largest LADWP water project completed since the construction of the Los Angeles Aqueduct Filtration Plant in 1986.
"The Hollywood Water Quality Improvement project was an enormous endeavor that would not have been possible without the support from the residents of Hollywood and the dedication of LADWP employees," said David Wiggs, LADWP general manager. "This innovative undertaking allows LADWP to provide the Hollywood community with safe, reliable water that complies with drinking water regulations."
As part of the comprehensive project, one million cubic yards of soil was unearthed and two 30-million gallon "Toyon" water tanks -- two of the largest of their kind in the world -- were constructed and buried at the Hollywood Reservoir. They are now taking over the function of storing treated water that will be served directly to Hollywood residents -- a role previously played by the Upper and Lower Hollywood Reservoirs. The two reservoirs, while remaining full, will no longer be used for drinking water purposes, but will be available for emergency supplies only.
As part of the project, LADWP and project construction company Kiewit Pacific constructed a 5,474-foot underground pipeline. The pipeline bypasses the two Hollywood Reservoirs and carries treated water directly to the underground "Toyon" tanks from the water distribution system network that flows from the Los Angeles Aqueduct Filtration Plant and San Fernando Groundwater Basin.
Other major infrastructure improvements included the construction of a utility tunnel, inlet/outlet vault structure, regulator station and inlet line.
Since 1992, when the project was conceived, LADWP has worked closely with volunteer representatives from the Hollywood community to develop a water quality improvement project that now meets both residential and environmental needs and the mandated regulatory requirements.
"This ground-breaking water quality project is an example of what can be accomplished when the local community joins together and works closely with the City to address its needs," said Los Angeles City Councilmember Tom LaBonge. "LADWP has demonstrated a strong commitment to the residents of Hollywood, and we appreciate the Department's tireless efforts to make this multimillion-dollar project a reality."
"This project is truly a win-win situation for the LADWP and Hollywood community," said Chris Hesse, Lake Hollywood Homeowner's Association representative. "From day one, LADWP involved the Hollywood community in the planning process, and we maintained an open dialogue throughout the project's development. As a result, more than a half million Hollywood residents will be ensured the delivery of quality water for years to come, and the integrity of this beautiful environment remains available for the community to enjoy."
To dedicate the project and express appreciation to the Hollywood community for its support during the construction period, Kiewet Pacific sponsored a dedication ceremony at the Hollywood Reservoir. Starting at 4:00 p.m., the event featured live music, food, drinks and remarks from Councilmember LaBonge, LADWP officials and Hollywood community representatives.
LADWP, the largest municipally owned utility, was established 100 years ago to provide water and electric needs to the city's residents and businesses. LADWP currently serves more than 3.8 million people in Los Angeles. Additional information regarding LADWP can be obtained at www.ladwp.com.
