The Cottonwoods Connection Project involves the construction of a new pipeline in three segments connecting the Big Cottonwood Water Treatment Plant (BCWTP) to the Little Cottonwood Water Treatment Plant (LCWTP). One of these segments, the SLAR section, will largely run parallel to the existing Salt Lake Aqueduct (SLA) pipeline. This new infrastructure will facilitate the transfer of water between the two plants, supporting their operations during upcoming projects, including the reconstruction of the BCWTP.

The initial purpose of the Cottonwoods Connection Project is to enable raw water from Big Cottonwood Creek to be conveyed to the LCWTP for treatment. This capability will ensure a continuous water supply to the community during construction and will establish flexibility in supplying treated water in the long term.

Furthermore, this project addresses the need to upgrade our aging water infrastructure, much of which requires repair or replacement. By doing so, it aims to enhance resilience against potential seismic events, ensuring reliable water supply for our community into the future.

Construction has already begun, and the entire project is expected to be completed by Fall 2026.

While we have an overall schedule, we approach each section in three-to-six-week phases to allow flexibility for supplies, materials, and unexpected changes. Residents within and adjacent to each work zone will receive advance notification from our public engagement team, followed by regular updates on duration as provided by the contractor.

This project addresses the need to reinforce and replace nearly century-old pipelines, ensuring continued supply of clean drinking water to the Salt Lake Valley. Proactive measures are crucial to maintaining reliable water supply as the valley continues to grow.

You can view the construction area map to see how the pipeline alignment travels through your neighborhood. During construction, expect possible noise, dust, vibration, potential detours, and construction vehicles in the area.

While water shut-offs are not anticipated, there is a possibility when working near water lines. Ensuring continuous access to clean drinking water throughout the project is a top priority..

Due to the pipeline alignment, detours may be necessary. Residents affected will be notified in advance by our public engagement team to coordinate access.

Our current schedule does not include regular night or weekend work, but this may become necessary. Residents will receive advance notice if night or weekend work is scheduled.

These pipelines supply drinking water to the Salt Lake Valley, including Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake City, Holladay, and Millcreek.

In approximately 20 years, after the SLAR is operational and both treatment plants have been replaced or rehabilitated, the SLA will undergo rehabilitation. This may involve either full replacement or slip lining, with slip lining being the preferred method due to reduced disruption. The decision on the method will be made closer to the start of the work, considering costs and feasibility.

Long-term, yes. Initially, SLAR will carry raw water from Big Cottonwood Creek to LCWTP during BCWTP reconstruction. After cleaning, it will permanently transport treated water.