When elected officials, key stakeholders and members of the media visit Central Arizona Project (CAP) Headquarters, their first question is often the same, “Where’s the canal?” Although CAP has a robust outreach program, opportunities to see the canal and learn about CAP’s history and operations are quite limited. A combination of security concerns – both cyber and physical – has made it difficult for the public to explore this engineering marvel firsthand.
This is about to change.
The Central Arizona Water Conservation District (CAWCD) Board recently approved a contract with M.A. Mortenson Company for the construction of a Water Education Center, marking a historic milestone for CAP. The project will provide an accessible and secure space where people can learn about CAP’s history and operations, as well as Arizona’s water story.
“CAP is an integral part of Arizona’s history, and the public has long been interested in learning and seeing more about this engineering marvel,” said Bridget Schwartz-Manock, assistant general manager, public and intergovernmental affairs. “Coupled with an interest in Western water issues, we’ve seen a steady increase in requests for presentations and tours, as well. This Water Education Center will truly take us to the next level in terms of engaging the public and sharing CAP’s story with them.”
The Water Education Center will give a larger audience an understanding of CAP, complete with safe, up-close views of the canal and hands-on, interactive exhibits. The new space will also support many functions including Central Arizona Water Conservation District Board (CAWCD) meetings, large water stakeholder meetings, elected official briefings and school field trips.
“Arizona needs a space like this,” said Karen Cesare, CAWCD Board Member. “We look back at history and ask what can we do today to make an impact in the next 20 to 30 years? It’s projects like this – ones that will inspire the next generation of people to work for our water future – policy makers, hydrologists, journeymen and crafts and trades people.”
The design of the Water Education Center is already in progress, with architects from Jones Studio and experience designers from Aldrich Pears incorporating feedback from the CAWCD Board members, CAP stakeholders, Arizona’s educational community and the public. Ultimately, the Water Education Center is envisioned as a dynamic and immersive space where Arizona water users, policymakers and scientific experts can come together to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding the state’s most vital resource: water.
“The Water Education Center reflects careful and deliberate planning and use of public funds, based on the feedback gained during many conversations with our water users and the public,” said Lisa Atkins, CAWCD Board Member. “This is more than just a building. It is a unique opportunity for all of us to learn and understand more about how precious our water is, as well as providing an opportunity for Arizona’s students of all ages to learn about water in the desert and the history and operations of the Central Arizona Project.”
Groundbreaking will be held in May, with the Water Education Center slated to open by the end of 2026.
Here’s a glimpse of what’s to come …
KRA: Public Trust, Partnerships & Leadership
Earning and preserving public trust, building and maintaining partnerships, and providing informed water management leadership
