Granite Construction, a firm based in Watsonville, California, has announced a substantial new water infrastructure contract. In collaboration with Contri Construction of Las Vegas, through their joint venture known as Southern Nevada Construction Partners, the company has secured a construction-manager-at-risk agreement with the Southern Nevada Water Authority. This contract, valued at an estimated $240 million for Granite, is a crucial part of SNWA's broader $2.7 billion Horizontal Lateral Program, designed to enhance water delivery and ensure long-term reliability for the Las Vegas Valley.

The scope of work for Southern Nevada Construction Partners within the Paradise Hills section is comprehensive. It encompasses the installation of approximately 22,000 linear feet of 120-inch steel water pipeline. This intricate process includes three trenchless crossings, navigating beneath an existing 108-inch waterline, Interstate 11, and Union Pacific Railroad tracks. Contri Construction will primarily manage the installation of this large-diameter pipeline and associated equipment. Additionally, the project will feature the integration of multiple valved outlets for future connections to Boulder City, the city of Henderson’s Reservoir R-8, and the broader Horizon Lateral pipeline. A key component of this undertaking is the construction of a state-of-the-art pumping station, initially capable of processing 35 million gallons per day, with an ultimate capacity of 65 million gallons per day. This facility will house advanced mechanical, electrical, and disinfection systems, along with surge protection infrastructure and sophisticated flow metering and control systems. Site improvements will also include civil grading, new access roads, robust perimeter security, and landscaping designed to complement the desert environment.

As the leading entity in the joint venture, Granite will be responsible for critical preparatory and installation tasks. This includes clearing and grubbing operations, managing structural excavations and backfill, and overseeing the formation, placement, and stripping of concrete structures. Furthermore, Granite will handle the construction of access roads along the pipeline route, the demolition and restoration of existing roadways, and the complete installation of all structures and equipment for the new pumping station. Don Sawyer, Granite's area manager, emphasized the long-term benefits of this collaboration, stating that SNCP is committed to delivering a high-value, future-proof water infrastructure solution essential for Southern Nevada’s sustained growth. The preconstruction phase is projected to conclude by December 2026, with construction activities slated to commence in January 2027 and reach completion by January 2030, marking a significant milestone in regional water management.

This substantial infrastructure development exemplifies the power of collaboration and foresight in addressing critical public needs. By investing in resilient water systems, communities secure their future prosperity and environmental health, showcasing how complex engineering projects contribute to a more stable and thriving society. Such initiatives not only provide essential services but also foster economic growth and create employment opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to progress and sustainable living for all residents.