Building San Diego’s Reliable Water Future
Planning & Design
Planning for the Carlsbad Desalination Plant began years before construction. Engineers and environmental experts worked together to design a plant that balances efficiency, sustainability, and community benefit. Every decision considered long-term water security for San Diego County.
Construction Milestones
Construction officially started on the plant and 10-mile pipeline in the early 2010s. Over 2,300 construction jobs were created, along with hundreds of permanent positions. Key milestones included foundation work, plant assembly, and pipeline installation, all completed with safety and quality as top priorities.
Community & Environmental Stewardship
Beyond building infrastructure, the project preserved over 15 acres of coastal land for public access. Trails, fishing areas, and bluff viewpoints enhance the community experience. Throughout construction, environmental protections were integrated to safeguard the lagoon and surrounding habitats.
50 million gallons/day of water capacity built
10-mile pipeline connecting the plant to the regional system
2,300+ jobs created during construction
15+ acres of public coastal land preserved
Millions in tax revenue generated for local services
Construction Photos
High-resolution photos of both Plant and Pipeline construction can be viewed and downloaded from our Flickr page.
Construction Highlights
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