EPCOR looks to construct new water reservoir to support Verrado growth

EPCOR Water Arizona, Inc., the water company serving the master-planned Verrado community, proposes proceeding with a 1.5-million-gallon ground storage reservoir infrastructure project to accommodate future population growth, according to city records obtained by InBuckeye.

According to a city pre-application, as part of the city’s continuing system expansion within the Agua Fria Water District, EPCOR plans to construct a 1.5 million gallon prestressed concrete ground storage reservoir at EPCOR's Water Plant 16 by the end of 2026.

The reservoir will be partially buried into the north side of a mountainside to minimize visual impact on the Verrado community

EPCOR has partnered with the engineering firm Burgess & Niple to develop specifications for the new reservoir.

Because of its long-term durability and low upkeep, engineering firm Burgess & Niple recommended that EPCOR choose a prestressed concrete tank. Though it costs more to build initially versus a steel tank, it proves to be a far more economical and sustainable option for EPCOR’s future operations, according to analysis included in the application.

Over its expected 100-year lifespan, a steel tank would require about $1.7 million in maintenance—more than 20 times the $82,725 needed for a concrete tank, according to B&N. Additionally, the total projected cost of owning and maintaining the steel tank over its lifetime is about $31 million. In contrast, a concrete tank’s total lifetime cost is estimated at just $4.16 million.

The reservoir is part of the broader Agua Fria Master Plan, developed by Carollo Engineers. It outlines seven phases of infrastructure development designed to meet the region's long-term water needs, according to EPCOR.