PASADENA, Calif. – Pasadena officials celebrated the completion of a major infrastructure project today with the opening of the Parke Groundwater Well and newly renovated basketball courts at Villa Parke, located at 3630 E. villa Street. The project aims to bolster the city’s water supply and enhance recreational facilities for residents.
The new Parke Groundwater Well replaces the aging Garfield Well,which served Pasadena for 104 years. Drilling began during the COVID-19 pandemic and concluded in April 2022. The well reaches a depth of approximately 820 feet, with a submersible pump and motor positioned nearly 500 feet below the surface. It’s capable of pumping up to 1,500 gallons of water per minute, considerably increasing the city’s groundwater capacity.
“Continuous investment in our infrastructure is crucial,” stated David Reyes, PWP General Manager. “The Parke Groundwater Well is a vital step in ensuring a resilient water future for Pasadena, especially as we navigate ongoing drought conditions in California.” The project was a collaborative effort between Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) and the parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department (PRCS).
Beyond the well itself, the project included a complete overhaul of the Villa Parke basketball courts. this encompassed resurfacing the courts, installing new court lights, replacing the turf surrounding the courts, and repairing the park’s irrigation system. The upgrades were made in response to community requests for improved recreational spaces.
The total cost of the Parke Groundwater Well and Villa Parke improvements was approximately $3.2 million, funded through PWP’s capital advancement budget. Phase one of the project focused on well construction, including drilling, development, and water quality testing. Phase two involved the installation of mechanical and electrical components, as well as the park renovations.
mayor Victor Gordo and vice Mayor Jess rivas joined PWP and PRCS officials at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 31st to officially inaugurate the completed project. The event highlighted the city’s commitment to both essential infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements for its residents.
View high-resolution images of the event here.
For detailed information about the Parke Groundwater well and other ongoing infrastructure projects in Pasadena, please visit PWPweb.com/Construction.
