Chandler's Water Infrastructure | Chandler in Focus with Councilmember Matt Orlando

This City of Chandler, Arizona meeting, featured in the "Chandler in Focus" series on May 28, 2026, focused extensively on water infrastructure, supply management, and related capital improvement projects. Key procurement-related discussions included the city's historic $50 million water acquisition deal with the Gila River Indian Community, investments in aquifer recharge facilities, and the construction and replacement of aging water mains. The city is ramping up water main replacements from about half a mile to nearly eight miles annually to address aging infrastructure, supported by recent council-approved funding. Additionally, Chandler is investing in advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) technology to improve water usage tracking and customer service, with full implementation expected by mid-2027. The meeting also highlighted a $3 million grant from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority for turf-to-xeriscape conversion projects to conserve water. These infrastructure investments are driving necessary water rate increases, though Chandler maintains relatively low rates compared to other communities. The discussion underscored the city's proactive long-term water supply planning, including a 100-year assured water supply certification and strategic partnerships to mitigate Colorado River shortages.