In a must-read from Politico, the expansion of the Los Vaqueros Reservoir seemed like a straightforward project — until it wasn’t. The collapse of this much-needed expansion, now seemingly dead, comes when California faces significant water challenges. 

Despite having 735,000 residents without reliable access to clean drinking water, the state hasn’t built a major water project in over 50 years. Yet, Wade Crowfoot, the state’s Secretary of Natural Resources, had the audacity to say, “It demonstrates that strong projects remain complex to deliver,” while feeling “good” about the state’s $500 million contribution to the failed project.

The issue isn’t just about this project; it’s about California’s future. Climate change is bringing more erratic weather patterns, which means the number of people lacking access to clean drinking water could increase dramatically. While a few wet winters have provided temporary relief, the state is headed for more dry cycles, making reliable water storage solutions critical.

Governor Newsom’s administration has shifted focus to projects like the Sites Reservoir and a proposed tunnel under the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. However, the Los Vaqueros expansion breakdown should serve as a warning: without action and collaboration, California’s water crisis will only deepen. 

The $1.6 billion project, plagued by rising costs, failed because of disputes over funding and control. The state will now redirect funds to other projects, but the clock is ticking. Getting these projects done is no longer a matter of politics but survival.