Congressman Valadao Secures Federal Funding for Friant-Kern Canal, Attends Groundbreaking for Phase I Pump Station Replacement Project

PORTERVILLE – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) attended the Friant Water Authority’s groundbreaking ceremony for the Friant-Kern Canal Phase I Pump Station Replacement Project. Phase 1 is the first of two phases that will result in the repair and replacement of a portion of the canal where land subsidence has caused significant capacity constraints. The completion of this project will improve operational reliability and strengthen the long-term resilience of the canal, helping deliver critical water resources across the Central Valley. Earlier this year, Congressman Valadao secured $540 million through the Working Families Tax Cut Act to support critical storage and conveyance projects across the state—the most significant water investment California has ever seen. Of that funding, $200 million was specifically set aside for the Friant-Kern Canal. “As a dairy farmer, I understand water isn’t just another issue for the Central Valley—it’s our way of life,” said Congressman Valadao. “Reliable water infrastructure supports the food we grow, the jobs we create, and the future we’re building together. That’s why I was proud to secure $200 million in federal funding for the Friant-Kern Canal to make these much-needed repairs which will improve water delivery reliability, maintain capacity, and strengthen resiliency for years to come. I want to thank the Friant Water Authority, Bureau of Reclamation, and our federal, state, and local leaders for their hard work to make this project possible. I look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure the Central Valley has the water resources needed to support our farms, families, and communities.” “Today, we are breaking ground on a significant investment that will help keep water flowing to the farms, families and communities that power the Central Valley. The Friant-Kern Canal is a vital part of California’s water delivery system for our communities and farms, and replacing these aging pump stations is critical to making sure water gets where it needs to go. Alongside Congressman Valadao, we fought to secure $540 million for California water projects—including $200 million directly for the Friant-Kern Canal. This is an incredible win for the San Joaquin Valley as we build the infrastructure we need today to secure our water supply for generations to come," said Rep. Vince Fong. “The Valley faces many challenges, including water supply certainty and land subsidence that impacts water reliability. Today is about taking action to restore the Friant-Kern Canal and protect a water system that is critical to the Central Valley. We’re grateful to President Trump and Congressmen David Valadao and Vince Fong for their continued support and commitment to securing the investments needed to strengthen this critical water infrastructure,” said Johnny Amaral, CEO, Friant Water Authority. Click here for photos from the event. ###