JWC Celebrates $1.09 Million Federal Grant for Seismic Improvements to Water Treatment Plant Disinfection System
The Joint Water Commission (JWC) welcomed Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici to the JWC Water Treatment Plant on March 9, 2026, to celebrate a $1.092 million Congressional Project Funding (CPF) grant secured for seismic improvements to the facility’s chlorine disinfection system.
The JWC is a drinking water treatment and delivery partnership between the cities of Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Beaverton, and the Tualatin Valley Water District. It is committed to providing safe, reliable drinking water to communities across the region.
The JWC Water Treatment Plant’s current chlorine storage and feed area is located on the ground floor of the operations building , which was constructed in 1974 before modern seismic design standards were established for the region’s earthquake risk. The project will transition the JWC from a chlorine gas system to a safer liquid disinfection system, housed in a new seismically resilient structure at the current plant site.
JWC Chair Todd Sanders expressed appreciation for the federal support, noting the significance of the milestone for the partnership and the highlighting the JWC’s 50th year of operation in 2026.
“What better way to celebrate this collaborative and successful partnership than to accept a $1.09 million dollar check?” said Sanders. “We look forward to the next 50 years of drinking water treatment and delivery and will continue working with community members and elected officials to ensure our water supply will be there and ready today, tomorrow and in the future.”
The project has completed 100% design and is awaiting a FEMA award letter for Phase 2 Construction. Project costs have increased in part due to updated seismic code, which now classifies water facilities at the highest level — Class IV — the same standard applied to hospitals. The Congressional Project Funding will help offset those costs, reducing the local cost share and helping keep water rates affordable for customers.
Hillsboro Mayor Beach Pace echoed the importance of partnership in making projects like this possible.
“Projects like this don’t happen without strong collaboration. We’re grateful for the partnerships that make critical infrastructure investments possible,” said Pace. “This project will make sure we’re ready to meet future challenges and respond quickly when our community needs us most, while also keeping water rates affordable for the customers and families we serve.”