On Nov. 15, 1985, a ceremony marked the first delivery of Colorado River water to Phoenix through the Central Arizona Project system.

”Today, I submit to you that we are here to celebrate the fact that the dream has come true,” then-Governor Bruce Babbitt said to the audience of political leaders and project supporters.

In the 40 years since, the $4 billion project has reliably delivered Colorado River water to the region where 80% of Arizona’s population resides. CAP has proven to be foundational to Arizona, connecting our communities and providing water security for millions of Arizonans.