GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. (AP) — The Transcanyon Water Distribution Pipeline, a vital component serving Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim, is currently facing challenges due to four significant breaks in the water pipeline. As a result, visitors will not be able to stay overnight in hotels inside the South Rim through the Labor Day holiday.
The pipeline, constructed in the 1960s, spans 12.5 miles and draws water from Roaring Springs on the North Rim to the Havasupai Gardens pump station before reaching the South Rim. This pipeline provides drinking water and fire suppression for all facilities on the South Rim, as well as some inner canyon facilities, including over 800 historic buildings.
The pipeline serves approximately 2,000 year-round residents of Grand Canyon Village, park staff, other employees, and the millions of visitors who frequent the national park each year.
The challenges faced by the pipeline are attributed to its aging infrastructure. The aluminum pipeline to the South Rim, which winds through trails and rocky terrain, is prone to breaks and leaks due to the presence of grit in the water that weakens its structure. Each repair costs an average of $25,000.
On the other hand, the steel pipeline leading to the North Rim, dating back to the 1930s, is susceptible to rock falls and freezing during winter months as it is above ground. A rockslide in 2017 caused significant damage to the pipeline, requiring a $1.5 million repair over two weeks. The lodge on the North Rim had to cancel reservations, and water had to be transported in for drinking and firefighting purposes.
Recognizing the urgent need to address the aging infrastructure, the National Park Service has initiated a $208 million rehabilitation project for the waterline and associated water delivery system. This comprehensive upgrade is expected to be completed by 2027. The waterline has surpassed its expected lifespan and has experienced over 85 major breaks since 2010, disrupting water delivery and necessitating costly repairs.
Despite ongoing challenges, the park has conducted engineering studies and allocated a portion of park entrance fees to mitigate costs associated with maintaining the waterline. The rehabilitation project aims to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the water delivery system, ensuring a sustainable water supply for residents, employees, and visitors of Grand Canyon National Park.
