Completed Projects/Issues - Parks / Coast / Environment

County Water Authority Hydroelectric and Pressure Control Facility

On April 25, 2002 Councilman Scott Peters testified before the County Water Authority in support of the Rancho Penansquitos community's desire for the County Water Authority to build a pressure control and hydroelectric facility in an area at the I-15 and Mercy road across from Kentucky Fried Chicken.

The County Water Authority (CWA) proposed the building of a pressure control and hydroelectric facility in the Rancho Penasquitos areas as part of the larger San Vicinte Pipeline Project which is a main water artery for San Diego County. Initially, the CWA planned to construct the new facility on it's easement off of Mercy Road, between Kika Court and Branicole Lane in Council District 5. The structure would have been less than 150 feet from a residential community and immediately adjacent to the backyards of many of the homes. Over 164 letters were received by the CWA board voicing opposition to the initial location of the facility and residents from both District one and five joined together to oppose the facility.

As a result of the opposition to the initial site, the CWA initiated an environmental impact report (EIR) that evaluated the initial site as well as three alternatives. The EIR determined that the "Ridgewood Park Site" was the "environmentally superior site" for the facility despite it's close proximity to a quiet residential neighborhood and a community park. Councilman Peters along with Community members believe that the facility is not compatible with the park and residences near the proposed site. Residents of Rancho Penasquitos and Mira Mesa have been joined by Councilmen Peters and Maienschein in support of Site 2 in the EIR which is at the I-15 and Mercy Road, away from any homes.

Councilman Peters joined the community at the April 25th CWA board meeting and has sent letters to the City of San Diego's representatives on the CWA and Jim Turner, Chairman of the CWA Board. (Read the letter to the CWA Board) (PDF: 31K).

The public comment period on the draft EIR will close May 1st. The board will render it's final decision at the June 27th board meeting to be held at the CWA building at 4677 Overland Avenue, San Diego, 92123. The public is welcome to attend.

If you have questions or concerns about the project, please contact Gina Molise with the CWA at 858-522-6706.