The Marin Municipal Water District’s significant $328 million capital improvement plan represents a dramatic escalation in infrastructure investment, nearly tripling annual spending compared to the previous decade.
This comprehensive five-year program, funded by previously approved rate increases, aims to modernize aging water systems throughout Marin County with major pipeline replacements, pump station upgrades, and innovative water storage solutions.
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The plan addresses critical infrastructure needs while enhancing the district’s ability to capture and store water, particularly during atmospheric river events that have become increasingly important to the region’s water security strategy.
Historic Investment in Marin’s Water Infrastructure
The newly outlined capital improvements program marks an unprecedented commitment to upgrading Marin County’s water infrastructure.
Following rate increases approved nearly two years ago, the district plans to invest more than $64 million annually through fiscal year 2030, a substantial increase from historical spending patterns between 2015 and 2024.
Residents of Mill Valley, San Rafael, and Corte Madera will benefit from this accelerated timeline of improvements.
The district works to address decades of deferred maintenance across its sprawling network of pipes, pumps, and reservoirs.
Pipeline Priorities and Atmospheric River Capture
Approximately $25 million per year has been earmarked for critical pipeline projects throughout the county.
One of the most innovative components is a $12.2 million atmospheric river capture pipeline designed to redirect water from Sonoma County to Marin’s reservoirs during heavy precipitation events.
This project reflects the growing importance of capturing intense rainfall periods in Marin’s water management strategy.
Additionally, $19 million will be allocated to replace aging, leak-prone pipes in Tiburon, Sausalito, and Larkspur.
These improvements will significantly reduce water loss and improve system reliability for thousands of residents in southern Marin communities.
Pump Station Modernization and Storage Enhancements
Another $25 million annually will fund critical pump station upgrades across the district.
Major renovations are planned for the Tocaloma facility in West Marin and the Fairfax Manor station, which serves residents in Central Marin.
These pump stations are vital links in the water distribution system that has served Marin communities for generations.
Residents of the Ross Valley will see significant improvements through a $10+ million water storage project.
This initiative will replace the century-old Pine Mountain Tunnel with two modern 2-million-gallon storage tanks, enhancing both reliability and safety for communities like San Anselmo and Fairfax.
Watershed Protection and Expanded Reservoir Capacity
The capital improvement plan also includes substantial investments in watershed protection and reservoir enhancement.
A $6.5 million modification to Nicasio Reservoir’s spillway gates will boost storage capacity, allowing the district to capture more rainfall in western Marin County.
Fire prevention remains a critical priority, with approximately $11 million allocated for vegetation management across watershed lands near Novato, Lucas Valley, and Mount Tamalpais.
These efforts will help protect both the natural environment and water quality for all Marin residents.
Next Steps for Implementation
The draft capital improvements program will undergo further review at a budget workshop scheduled for May 6. Final adoption is expected on June 3.
Board President Matt Samson has expressed strong support for the plan. He noted it represents an opportunity for the district to “make up for a lot of lost time” in modernizing critical infrastructure.
For residents across Marin County—from Novato to Stinson Beach and San Rafael to Muir Beach—these investments promise improved water system reliability. The plan also aims to enhance storage capacity and better prepare for future climate challenges that may impact the region’s water security.
Here is the source article for this story: Marin Municipal Water District outlines $328M in capital investments
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