EPCOR Unveils Permanent Water Solution for Rio Verde Foothills Community in 2026

EPCOR Delivers Essential Water Infrastructure for Rio Verde Foothills

EPCOR USA Inc., the American arm of EPCOR Utilities Inc., is proud to announce the completion of a new permanent water filling station designed to meet the unique needs of the Rio Verde Foothills community in Arizona. This facility, which has been years in the making, will officially open its doors on January 1, 2026, at 7 AM local time.

A Commitment to Community Needs

The new water filling station represents a significant milestone in EPCOR's promise to address the water challenges faced by the residents of Rio Verde Foothills. Shawn Bradford, Senior Vice President of Regulated US Water for EPCOR, stated, "Promise made, promise kept." This highlights the company's dedication to finding sustainable solutions for communities that rely heavily on water supply.

The project was the result of a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders, including the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, the Arizona Legislature, and the City of Scottsdale. Through this partnership, EPCOR addressed a critical issue that had arisen due to recent cuts in Colorado River water allocations, which were initiated by the Federal Bureau of Reclamation.

The New Facility: Details and Operations

The new filling station strategically replaces a temporary service that had been established in response to the community's water crisis. EPCOR’s commitment to innovation and rapid action allowed for the successful construction of not only the filling station itself but also the one-mile pipeline and related infrastructure, all completed to ensure efficient water delivery.

The new water station will operate daily from 7 AM to 6 PM, ensuring all residents have access to water. However, it is worth noting that accessing water from this facility requires prior setup of a customer account along with an assigned access code (PIN). This ensures responsible and controlled use of the water resources available.

A Solution with Long-Term Benefits

Rio Verde Foothills, located just 32 miles northeast of Scottsdale, has historically leaned on the City of Scottsdale for its water. However, due to the unprecedented water allocation cuts in 2023, a robust and long-term solution became a pressing necessity. The newly built facility aims to ensure that residents can rely on a stable water supply, effectively relieving the stress of uncertainty that the community has faced in recent years.

Bradford added that delivering this facility was possible through the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. He emphasized that it serves as a concrete example of what can be achieved through collaboration during challenging times. This facility will give the residents peace of mind for the foreseeable future, reinforcing EPCOR’s role as a vital service provider in caring for community needs.

Background to the Challenge

Prior to the establishment of this permanent solution, the community faced a dire situation. The temporary arrangements that had been set up due to the water crisis were only a stopgap measure, once intended to last until a more sustainable option could be secured. The end of the temporary measures is set for December 31, 2025, making the timing of the new station's opening crucial for residents relying on consistent water supply.

In conclusion, EPCOR USA's new water filling station is not just a piece of infrastructure; it's a beacon of reliability and hope for the residents of Rio Verde Foothills. By ensuring that this community has an adequate and enduring source of water, EPCOR is paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future. For further information about customer accounts and services, residents are encouraged to contact EPCOR directly using the provided telephone number or email address.

As EPCOR moves forward, they remain committed to their mission of providing reliable water, energy, and wastewater solutions across the United States and Canada, building and maintaining facilities that support the communities they serve.