Hexavalent Chromium-6 Mitigation Project

The City of Coachella and the Coachella Water Authority are implementing the Hexavalent Chromium-6 Mitigation Project to comply with California state requirements to reduce Chromium-6 levels in drinking water to 10 micrograms per liter by October 2027. The project involves retrofitting seven domestic water wells using reduction, coagulation, and filtration technology, which utilizes ferrous iron chemical injection to convert hexavalent chromium into a less soluble trivalent form. Infrastructure improvements include the installation of filter and reduction vessels, chemical injection and electrical systems, on-site backwash tanks, wastewater discharge lines, and three sewer line upgrades. Project sites are distributed across the city, including locations within residential subdivisions, open lands, and areas adjacent to city parks. The environmental review process, managed by Terra Nova Planning and Research, Inc., includes a Mitigated Negative Declaration to address potential impacts on local wildlife, such as nesting birds and the Burrowing Owl. The project is currently in the presolicitation phase, with a public review period established from September 23, 2026, through October 23, 2026, under the direction of the City of Coachella Utilities Director.