Humanity's Top 12 Expensive Construction Builds
9. The Project Central Arizona
Location: Tucson, Arizona
Completed Cost: $4 billion
Year Completed: 1993
The Central Arizona Project (CAP) is a vital water delivery system that serves over five million people, accounting for more than 80% of Arizona's total population. Spanning 336 miles, it provides essential water resources to residents of Pima, Pinal, and Maricopa counties.
Significance Water Supply: The CAP plays a crucial role in supplying water to a large portion of Arizona, supporting both residential and agricultural needs. Investment: With a total construction cost of $4 billion, the CAP represents a significant investment in the region's infrastructure and sustainability.
Annual Capacity: 456 billion gallons of water
The Central Arizona Project (CAP) operates on a financing model where cities pay for the right to use its water supply. This system allows municipalities to manage their water resources while contributing to the project's financial sustainability.
Funding Mechanism Capital Charges: Cities with contracts to access Colorado River water supply pay capital charges. Debt Management: These payments help offset the government's debt incurred during the construction and operation of the CAP.