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Click here to recieve news and updates on EWEB's Hawkins Hill water storage improvement project.
The Hawkins Hill water tank, constructed in 1963, provides 20 million gallons of storage for Eugene. It is located off Hawkins Lane, just south of 25th Avenue. As part of EWEB's Water Storage Improvement Projects, we plan to replace the existing 57-year-old, 20 million gallon (MG) tank with two 7.5 MG tanks.
Why is this project necessary?
EWEB's Hawkins Hill water storage tank is part of the backbone of the water system that would be needed after an earthquake in order to meet critical community needs, including fire suppression, health and emergency response, and drinking water distribution. However, a 2004 assessment determined the facility does not meet seismic codes. Significant structural repairs are required to meet seismic standards. For about the same cost of retrofitting a 50-year-old facility that still might not withstand an earthquake, we can build two new ones.
When will work begin on this project?
Once the College Hill water storage tanks are complete, EWEB will focus on replacing the Hawkins Hill reservoir.
News and updates
We are committed to keeping our customers informed about this project. In addition to information posted on this website, we will share regular updates through email, traditional news media, and other channels.
Email Updates
July 9, 2021: Future updates planned for Hawkins Hills water storage
April 2021: This project is still in the earliest planning stages.
News Stories
KVAL 13, March 6, 2020: EWEB to rebuild both College Hill and Hawkins Hill water towers
Community Involvement
We are committed to ensuring customers have access to information about the project, including timeline, benefits and costs. Those who are highly interested and directly affected, such as site neighbors, will receive up-to-date project details and have opportunities to share feedback, concerns, and aspirations.
For any property retained by EWEB and not used for storage facilities, site neighbors and other residents will be invited to participate in decisions that involve:
- Landscape design, such as earth, rock, water, and vegetation features
- Public amenities (outside the fenced tanks) such as interpretive displays, walking paths
Opportunities to be involved and share feedback will be advertised on this website and other channels.
Summary of August 2019 Stakeholder Interviews
Public access to water storage facilities
The new facilities will be designed according to contemporary standards, which prevent public access to critical drinking water facilities. In order to protect our drinking water supply, the new tank structures will be fenced.
Neighbors currently enjoy walking paths around the facility. Understanding that public access has been a valued community benefit, EWEB is evaluating options for maintaining areas of open space at the project site. We intend to work together with neighbors and other stakeholders to re-landscape portions of the site for public use while ensuring responsible use of public funds.
Related Programs
Improving resilience
Learn how new water storage facilities will better withstand natural disasters and protect public health.
E. 40th Water Storage Project
In March 2024, EWEB completed construction of two new 7.5 million gallon earthquake-proof tanks on an undeveloped 10-acre site.
College Hill
EWEB is replacing the leaky and antiquated reservoir with new, modern drinking water storage tanks built to withstand major earthquakes.
Hawkins Hill
The existing 20 million gallon tank will be replaced by two new, 7.5 MG tanks.
