On October 9, 2025, EBMUD hosted a community meeting to share information on several upcoming projects at and near the Lafayette Reservoir. A recording of that meeting is posted below.
Background
EBMUD is investing in several important projects in Lafayette to strengthen water service reliability and enhance the visitor experience at the Lafayette Reservoir. Work includes a seismic retrofit of the Reservoir Tower to improve dam safety, upgrades at the Lafayette Water Treatment Plant to ensure reliable water service for the region, and replacement of the Reservoir Recreation Area’s aging wastewater system. Together, these improvements will modernize critical infrastructure, protect public safety, and support continued enjoyment of the Reservoir and surrounding community for years to come.
Lafayette Reservoir Tower Retrofit Project
EBMUD is undertaking a major dam safety upgrade to retrofit the Lafayette Reservoir Tower, originally built in 1929, to modern seismic standards. The plan, approved by the Division of Safety of Dams, will shorten the tower by 40 feet to improve safety and resilience.
A dedicated virtual meeting focused on construction impacts and access during Tower work will be held in early 2026.
Learn more about the Lafayette Reservoir Tower Retrofit Project
Lafayette Water Treatment Plant Maintenance & Reliability Improvements
EBMUD is upgrading the Lafayette Water Treatment Plant on Mt. Diablo Boulevard to improve water service reliability for the region. Work will include improvements to treatment systems and chemical facilities.
During construction, a portion of the Walter Costa Trail that passes through District property will be temporarily closed to ensure public safety.
Learn more about the Lafayette Water Treatment Plant Maintenance & Reliability Improvements
Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area Wastewater Collection System Improvements
EBMUD is replacing the aging wastewater system and sewer piping at the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area. This work, scheduled from fall 2025 through fall 2026, will ensure reliable wastewater service for the park.
The recreation area will remain open throughout construction, though some areas may be temporarily impacted as work progresses.
Learn more about the Lafayette Reservoir Wastewater Collection System Improvements Project
Staying Connected
EBMUD is committed to maintaining public access where possible, posting clear signage, and providing advance notice for any closures or impacts to visitor routes. We encourage all residents and visitors to stay informed, attend the October 9 community meeting, and engage with our project team as we move forward with these important infrastructure improvements. Receive the latest updates directly, please sign up for EBMUD Alerts. Email alerts are preferred so you never miss important notices about this work.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact:
Community Affairs
East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD)
Email: construction-east@ebmud.com
Phone: 510-287-2053
Lafayette Reservoir Recreation and Picnic Reservations
The East Bay Municipal Utility District owns and operates the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area for the community. To learn more about recreation opportunities, amenities, and access at the reservoir, please visit the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation webpage.
Picnic Reservation Update
Due to construction planned at Lafayette Reservoir, picnic site reservations are unavailable between February 2026 and July 2026. As the construction timeline becomes clearer, EBMUD expects to open select reservation dates. Please check back periodically for availability as dates are released. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Picnic areas that are not affected by construction will continue to be available on a first-come, first-served basis.