Arizona's taps won't run dry, but water bills will go up under federal plan for Colorado River

Key Points:

• Starting January 1, Arizona faces mandatory 27% cuts to its Colorado River water supply through 2028 due to prolonged drought and federal intervention after failed state negotiations, impacting the Central Arizona Project canal that supplies 40% of Phoenix's water.
• Phoenix and surrounding cities have diversified water sources, including the Salt and Verde Rivers and groundwater, alongside significant infrastructure investments like a $300 million drought pipeline, which help mitigate the impact of Colorado River cuts.
• Water utilities are preparing for increased costs from necessary infrastructure upgrades, leading to higher water rates for residents, as seen in Gilbert where water bills have roughly doubled since 2024 to fund new wells and treatment plants.
• Despite extensive planning, uncertainty remains high due to climate change, future federal cutbacks possibly reaching 40%, and disputes over access to stored underground water, complicating long-term water security for smaller communities like Cave Creek.
• Phoenix is investing in advanced water recycling facilities expected to come online by 2029 and 2033, aiming to create more drought-proof water supplies, with officials urging federal financial support to help cover the multi-million-dollar costs.