NEWPORT BEACH, CA – The cities of Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Fountain Valley have reached a landmark agreement to jointly develop a new regional groundwater well that will enhance long-term water reliability for coastal Orange County communities. City officials from all three jurisdictions formalized the partnership with a signing ceremony on Nov. 6, 2025.
Under the cooperative plan, Newport Beach will oversee the project’s planning, design, and construction in collaboration with the Laguna Beach County Water District, the City of Fountain Valley, and the Orange County Water District, which manages the county’s groundwater basin. The new well, located at 17902 Bushard Street in Fountain Valley, is expected to begin operation by 2028.
“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting a sustainable groundwater basin and reducing reliance on outside water sources,” said Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton. “By investing in local water supply, we’re ensuring long-term reliability for future generations.”
The Bushard Street Well will draw from the Orange County Groundwater Basin, allowing Newport Beach to transition to 100% groundwater use, eliminating the city’s dependence on imported water from Northern California and the Colorado River. Currently, about 85% of Newport Beach’s water supply comes from local groundwater.
The $30 million project will be built in three phases beginning in 2026, with Newport Beach contributing $20 million of the total cost. City officials anticipate the investment will be offset over time by the lower cost of groundwater compared to imported sources.
In addition to increasing water independence for Newport and Laguna Beach, the agreement provides Fountain Valley with local infrastructure upgrades and funding to support community services.
