City Seeks Alternative Water Sources to Support Future Growth
The City of Paris, Texas, approved a resolution in early January to enter into exclusive negotiations with the City of Irving to possibly purchase excess water from Lake Pat Mayse. Though not in danger of running out of water, alternative water sources are being investigated to ensure an adequate water supply to support future growth in Irving.
The effort will examine the quantity of water available, coordination of drought plans, payment terms, future water demand in Paris, and potential new water sources in the region. The agreement will allow both parties to explore options to meet the needs of both communities and determine whether the lake would be a viable water source.
“We want to diversify our water sources, and Lake Pat Mayse may be an option to ensure another long-term water supply for Irving,” said Mayor Herbert Gears.
In addition to a $40,000 payment to secure negotiating rights for a year, Irving will pay up to $160,000 for costs associated with legal and engineering fees.
The City of Irving is uniquely positioned to use this new source due to previous investments made over many years to develop Lake Chapman, Irving’s primary water source, and a 73-mile pipeline to Lake Lewisville.
Water from Lake Chapman is piped to Lake Lewisville via Lake Lavon, and eventually to Irving. If a long-term agreement is reached with the City of Paris, Irving would lay lines to transmit water from Lake Pat Mayse to Lake Chapman. About 15 percent of Irving’s water is provided by Dallas Water Utilities.
“The City of Irving looks forward to a long-term relationship with the City of Paris as we combine our assets to benefit our respective residents,” said City Manager Tommy Gonzalez.
