OAKHURST, Calif. — California American Water has begun work on a major new treatment facility designed to improve water quality, strengthen system reliability, and support future growth in its Madera County service area. The investment targets the district’s Goldside system, which has faced long-standing challenges with naturally occurring minerals in groundwater.
“This treatment facility is designed to improve water quality and continue to help the company meet all health and safety standards without interruption to service,” said Usmita Pokhrel, Engineering Manager for California American Water. “We’re dedicated to providing a long-term solution for a long-standing issue for the community safely and efficiently.”
Construction began in September on the $5.2 million Goldside Water Treatment Plant, which is designed to remove iron and manganese. While those minerals are naturally present and not harmful, they can lead to discolored water and other aesthetic concerns that affect the customer experience.
Once operational, the upgraded facility will:
The project includes a new treatment building, two small processing tanks, a booster station that will transport treated water to the Goldside reservoir, and a modernized control and electrical system to improve operational responsiveness. Construction is scheduled through September 2026.
Local teams say the improvements are part of a broader plan to modernize aging infrastructure and prepare for increased climate-driven water pressures.
“This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to water quality and reliability for our Madera County District customers,” said Audie Foster, Director of Operations for California American Water’s Northern Division. “We’re grateful for the community’s support as we move forward with this project.”
As construction ramps up, residents may see more construction vehicles and temporary traffic control near Sutton Place and Sutton Drive. The company says disruptions will be limited, with no expected water outages during the build. Crews are also coordinating closely with local officials to maintain safety in work zones.
California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, serves approximately 750,000 people across the state. Its parent company — the largest regulated water and wastewater provider in the U.S. — has expanded its infrastructure investment pipeline as utilities nationwide work to improve resilience and meet tightening regulatory standards.
Originally reported by Business Wire.
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