U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) welcomed on Mar. 18 a $100 million federal investment to upgrade the Strawberry High Line Canal, a project made possible by the Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cuts Act. The funding will replace the nearly century-old canal with an enclosed pipeline aimed at improving safety and water delivery efficiency for communities and agriculture in central Utah.
The modernization of this water system is considered important as it supports reliable access to water for local users, including farmers and growing communities in the region. Upgrades are expected to reduce water loss, enhance long-term reliability, and help prepare the Uinta Basin for future demand.
“Reliable water infrastructure is essential to Utah’s communities, farmers, and our growing economy,” said Senator Curtis. “The bold and practical measures included in Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill will modernize central Utah’s century-old system, conserve water, and help ensure the Uinta Basin is better prepared to meet future water demand.”
The Working Families Tax Cuts Act was enacted by Republicans in 2025 and provided $1 billion to the Department of the Interior for restoring and expanding western U.S. water conveyance systems as well as increasing surface storage capacity.
Curtis has served as mayor of Provo for two terms and represents Utah in the Senate according to his official website. He founded the Conservative Climate Caucus according to his official website and ranks among the most effective Republican members of Congress according to his official website. Curtis also advocates for conservative environmental solutions while supporting small businesses; he has passed legislation on public land management and human trafficking according to his official website.
Curtis continues efforts with federal, state, and local partners toward strengthening drought resilience across western states.
