Congressman Ruiz visits Hemet to discuss major $1.2 million water main replacement project in city

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Hemet’s planned Water Main Replacement Project was discussed by Congressman Raul Ruiz with Hemet Mayor Joe Males, City Manager Mark Prestwich and Chief of Police Eddie Pust, at the Park Hill tank site Wednesday, Jan. 18.

The project will replace the existing water transmission line, experiencing failures due to deterring pipe material. Upgrading the transition line is critical to strengthening the city’s capability to deliver safe, potable and reliable water from the water tanks to the distribution system, according to engineers.

Ruiz and the Hemet officials learned the project will ensure continuity of water services for 30,000 Hemet residents and aid fire prevention for the community.

Congressman Ruiz secured $1.2 million for the Hemet project in the government funding package for this year. This was part of the $21 million regional investment he secured.

“This is good news for our local economy and communities. With the $21 million in federal funding that I secured, local families from Hemet to Coachella to Blythe will see critical projects move forward that will drive economic development and strengthen our infrastructure,” Ruiz said. “I look forward to President Biden quickly signing this legislation into law to deliver these bold investments to our region.”

Public Works Director Noah Rau said, “The Hemet Public Works Department has identified over $100 million of capital improvement projects through 2027. Thanks to Congressman Ruiz’s leadership and advocacy, water delivery to over 30,000 Hemet customers will remain uninterrupted.

“Our ultimate goal has been met here, and that is regional partnership for the betterment of Riverside County communities. The City of Hemet is incredibly grateful for the representation Congressman Ruiz is providing for us at the Capitol, and we remain committed to working with his office to bring the concerns of Hemet constituents to Congress.”

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.