Project Overview

Tahoe City Public Utility District is investing approximately $3.6 Million in three projects to improve the Rubicon Water System. These projects help to create a more resilient water system and help improve water supply for fire suppression efforts. 

The three projects are:

• Rubicon Wells 2&3 Backup Power Project
• Lower Meeks Bay Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) Project
• Rubicon Tank Water Feed Line Replacement. 

Learn more about each project below. 

Rubicon Wells 2 & 3 Backup Power Project

Planned Improvements

Winter access to this location is difficult and can slow down emergency response during power outages. Permanent backup electrical power will keep water flowing during power outages and is critical for building a resilient water supply.

This project will construct a building to house a permanent backup generator. The project will also install new electrical and chlorine feed lines.
 

Project Status - Updated 3/27/2025

Contractors for TCPUD are planning to begin work in May. Construction is expected to last through Fall 2025. 

There will be associated heavy equipment and construction noise in the area and possible temporary traffic controls.

Project Communications

Lower Meeks Bay Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) Project

Planned Improvements

This project will improve water pressure and flow rates during high-demand conditions, such as fire flows. This area is currently only served by one water connection. The project adds a secondary water system connection to keep water flowing in the event of a failure or required maintenance.

Planned improvements include:

• 600 feet of new water mains.
• A secondary connection to the adjacent Tahoe Hills water distribution system.
• A pressure reducing valve to match water pressure between the two systems.
• Two new system meters to monitor water flow.

Project Status - Updated 3/27/25

Contractors for TCPUD are planning to begin this project in late July or early August. Construction is expected to last through Fall 2025.

There will be associated heavy equipment and construction noise in the area and temporary traffic controls.

Temporary water shutoffs will be necessary during construction. Customers will receive at least 48-hour notice before any planned water shutoffs.

Rubicon Tank Water Feed Line Replacement

Planned Improvements

This project replaces and upsizes 275 feet of water main from the Rubicon Tank to the water distribution system.

Increasing the diameter of this pipe will provide more flow and water pressure. This ensures adequate water supply during high demand conditions like fire flows.

Project Status - Updated 3/27/25

Contractors for TCPUD are planning to begin this project in late July or early August. Construction is expected to last through Fall 2025.

There will be associated heavy equipment and construction noise in the area and temporary traffic controls.

Temporary water shutoffs will be necessary during construction. Customers will receive at least 48-hour notice before any planned water shutoffs.

Thank you to El Dorado Water Agency for funding support for these projects.

Contact Us

Phillip Tapia, Construction Project Manager, Email or call (530) 580-6046

Aaron Hussmann, Public Affairs Specialist, Email or call (530) 580-6291