LOUISA, VIRGINIA – The James River Water Authority (JRWA) held a groundbreaking ceremony in Fluvanna County on August 14, 2024, signifying the beginning of an estimated two-year completion timeline for the meaningful water infrastructure project. Local officials and community leaders gathered to recognize the project as a long-term sustainable water supply solution serving Fluvanna and Louisa County.

The project will consist of a fully submerged water intake in the James River, a water pump station, and a raw water pipeline to carry the water nearly four miles, where it will connect to an existing Louisa County Water Authority water main. By utilizing water from the James River, Fluvanna and Louisa will not only minimize their reliance on surface and groundwater, but also will adequately meet the water needs of their growing populations. This project began in earnest over two decades ago, when similar to the effects of the drought experienced this summer, the surface and groundwater systems were stressed in both counties.

It is estimated that millions of gallons of water will be needed daily in the area in the coming years, making this forward movement of the initiative highly important. “The James River can safely and sustainably accommodate a withdrawal to meet that anticipated demand,” said Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors Chairman Chris Fairchild. “Even during the lowest flows, the James will provide water for our communities.”

JRWA is a partnership between Fluvanna and Louisa County, where both counties share in the investment and will receive 50% of the supply when the system is operational. Louisa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Duane Adams noted the collaboration between counties was a model for other jurisdictions and stressed the fiscal responsibility of the long-term plan.

Detailed studies and formal permitting spanning a number of years have resulted in an abundance of confidence that the selected location and water main route represent minimized impacts on the environment and historical resources.