Newsom's Delta Tunnel project faces setback as fast-track bills die in legislature
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s controversial plan to build a massive water tunnel beneath the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta has hit a political roadblock after two bills designed to fast-track the project failed to advance in the state Legislature.
According to CBS News, the bills, which aimed to exempt the Delta Conveyance Project from parts of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), streamline permitting, authorize bond financing, and limit legal challenges, were left to die in committee without a vote.
Supporters argue the $60–100 billion tunnel is essential to modernize California’s water infrastructure and secure supplies for Southern California cities and Central Valley farms in the face of climate change, CBS News reported. Newsom’s office said the state must “complete this project as soon as possible” to prepare for a hotter, drier future.
Opponents, however, say the project threatens fragile ecosystems, downstream fish populations, and local economies in Delta communities such as Isleton, which depend on tourism and the health of the river. Environmental groups, including SF Baykeeper, also raised concerns about bypassing state environmental laws and the enormous price tag.
Jon Rosenfield, science director for SF Baykeeper, said lawmakers are wary of piling a massive $60–100 billion project onto Californians already struggling with high living costs. He argued the Delta tunnel would add expenses without delivering real solutions, making it an unattractive option.
If approved in the future, the 45-mile tunnel would divert water from the Sacramento River to a reservoir near Livermore before connecting to the California Aqueduct. Construction is unlikely to begin before 2029 and could take at least 15 years to complete.
For now, the project must proceed through the standard regulatory process, though Newsom has said he wants it fully entitled before leaving office.
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