The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, as well as city, state and local officials, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday for the East Calcasieu Water System Expansion Project at the corner of East Gauthier and Corbina roads in Lake Charles.

The construction of the elevated water tower at the site is part of this expansion project. Once completed, the tower will stand 160 feet above ground level and will have the capacity to hold 500,000 gallons of water and it will ensure sufficient water storage and pressure for the southern region. The tank will work in tandem with a new booster pump to pressurize the entire network and support future growth. Additionally, approximately two miles of existing 8-inch waterline along LA 397 will be upgraded to a 12-inch line to ensure efficient water flow to the elevated tank.

The origins of this project began three years ago when Police Jurors expressed an interest to expand water service to the unincorporated areas south and east of Lake Charles. What resulted from those early discussions is the East Calcasieu Water System Expansion Project that will improve water service for three water districts currently overseen by the Police Jury -- Waterworks District 5 of Wards 3 and 8 (Mallard Junction), Waterworks District 8 of Wards 3 and 8 (LeBleu Settlement) and Waterworks District 12 of Ward 3 (South Lake Charles).

Also included in this expansion will be the construction of a network of waterlines and a booster station. The project includes a new 12-inch waterline that will connect Waterworks District 5 to Waterworks District 12, totaling over 9.5 miles of new water pipe. The project will also establish a permanent waterline connection between Waterworks District 5 and Waterworks District 8, replacing a temporary emergency connection that proved crucial after Hurricane Laura.

“Together, we are building a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for Calcasieu Parish. Providing access to clean, reliable water will be a foundation on which we can build homes, businesses, and futures,” said Cliff Vanicor, Assistant Parish Engineer. “This project will meet the existing and future demands of our community and provide an opportunity for residents relying on well water to connect to a water supply that is consistent, high-quality, monitored, and sustainable for the long term.”

The tower is expected to be completed at the end of 2025. Visit calcasieu.gov/eastcalwaterproject for more information.