Ogden City is advancing to the next phase of the Ogden Canyon 36-Inch Water Transmission Pipeline Replacement Project by beginning construction on the Pineview Reservoir crossing. This segment of the project connects the wellfield north of Pineview Reservoir to the transmission system at Port Ramp Marina.
Aging infrastructure causes significant leaks
The existing pipeline has been in service for approximately 55 years beneath the reservoir and nearly 100 years through Ogden Canyon. The aging infrastructure is currently experiencing estimated water losses exceeding one million gallons per day.
Construction method and future redundancy
The construction approach involves lowering water levels to install a new pipeline alongside the existing one within the federally authorized corridor, rather than fully draining the reservoir. Once completed, the original pipeline will be rehabilitated to serve as a redundant backup line.
Strategic timing for water reliability
Justin Anderson, Executive Director of Public Services for Ogden City, stated that replacing the pipeline now protects long-term water reliability and takes advantage of a rare opportunity created by naturally low reservoir levels. He noted that the project reflects years of planning and coordination among local, state, and federal partners.
Leveraging low reservoir water levels
The timing of the work leverages the 2025–2026 water year, which produced the lowest statewide snowpack on modern record. Because Pineview Reservoir was already projected to reach low levels, the city can perform critical work with reduced impact compared to a typical water year.
Project funding and total investment
The approximately $100 million project is being financed through various sources, including loans from the EPA's Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The total project investment for all phases spanning 2025 to 2029 is estimated at $100 million.
Interagency coordination and water management
Coordination for the project includes the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District, Ogden River Water Users Association, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Forest Service, and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Any water released during construction will remain within the regional water management system, including Willard Bay.
