U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) announced on Mar. 18 a $100 million federal investment to replace the Highline Canal near Duchesne, Utah, with an enclosed pipeline. The funding is made possible by the Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cuts Act and aims to improve safety and water delivery efficiency for communities and agriculture in eastern Utah.
The investment is intended to upgrade critical water delivery systems, making them more reliable and efficient for local users. Curtis said, “Reliable water infrastructure is essential to Utah’s communities, farmers, and our growing economy.” He added, “The bold and practical measures included in Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill will modernize Duchesne’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 to restore and expand water conveyance systems as well as increase surface water storage capacity across the West.
In Utah specifically, the $100 million will be used to replace the 110-year-old Highline Canal with a modern enclosed pipeline system. This project is expected to reduce water loss, enhance long-term reliability for local users, and support ongoing efforts to strengthen drought resilience throughout the region.
Senator Curtis continues to work with federal, state, and local partners on advancing these infrastructure improvements. The funding reflects broader efforts aimed at ensuring sustainable water resources for Utah’s future.
