The Cobbs Creek Reservoir is a $280 million project by Henrico County to create a 15 billion-gallon freshwater reservoir, in order to better serve the region’s water needs. The 1,100 acre reservoir, which is slated for completion in 2022, will divert water from the James during periods of overflow and have the capacity to put over 100 million gallons of water per day back into the James during periods of drought.
The Cobbs Creek Reservoir is an excellent example of regional collaboration in which multiple public and private partners have come together to address the growing need for water in the region and protect the area from periods of drought.
Cumberland County agreed to have the reservoir built within its boundaries and, along with Powhatan County, will be given the choice to opt into using the system. Dominion Virginia Powerlines and Colonial Pipeline also aided in the project by agreeing to relocate power and gas lines on the site where the reservoir is being constructed. In exchange for funding the regional reservoir, Henrico County will be allowed to withdraw an additional 30 million gallons of water from the James per day, increasing its water usage capacity to 110 million gallons per day. This increase in capacity will likely meet the county’s water needs for the next 50 years. Not only will the reservoir aid in critical regional issues like water security, but it will also provide recreational opportunities, such as fishing and a public boat access. Public-private collaborations like these are vital to creating a more sustainable and secure water supply in the Richmond Region.
This example of regional collaboration not only brings together multiple partners, but also crosses our James River, Quality Place, and Healthy Community priority areas. Contact us if you have a collaborative story to share.