On Monday, August 20th, the San Elijo Joint Powers Authority (SEJPA) board met and approved award of the construction project and booster pumps for the south mesa reclaimed water project. This project is intended to complete the work to bring reclaimed water into the south mesa for all of the common areas. Construction work is expected to begin in November and last approximately six months.

This project will not only reduce the costs of water for the common areas but also allow the community to maintain and further enhance millions of dollars of landscaping including all of the turf, trails, slopes and parks. Potable water costs are growing at an average rate of 7% per year while reclaimed water is 20% less in cost than potable water and there are no limitations or restrictions on how much or how often you use reclaimed water.

There are three beneficiaries of the project including the Encinitas Ranch Community Association as well as FoxPoint Farms and the City of Encinitas. Each of these parties are participating in sharing a small portion of the overall costs of the project which is estimated at approximately $2 million. The three beneficiaries will contribute about 7.5% of the overall project costs. The remainder of the costs are being covered by SEJPA using a combination of state grant money and their own funds. All of the funding being provided by Encinitas Ranch will come from our operating budget and reserves. A good portion of the costs are being spread over four years and the community is also taking advantage of rebate programs through the state. There will not need to be any special assessment or increase in dues for the homeowners.

The water line for the project will start at the intersection of Quail Gardens Drive then extend up the entire length of Paseo de las Flores then south on Lynwood Drive to the south end. The line will be laid under the street in a trench that will be filled in and then repaved. As mentioned in the past, everything possible will be done to minimize impacts on traffic as well as access to and from individual homes.

We will keep everyone updated on a very frequent basis as the start of actual construction nears.