#24 - Why Does It Take So Long to Build a Water Project?

California needs water infrastructure urgently. But why does it take decades to build something as essential as a reservoir?

In this episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, host Charley Wilson explores the complex, often frustrating world of water project development in California. From environmental reviews to legal red tape, we dig into the reasons why progress moves at a glacial pace—and what’s being done to change that.

Charley is joined by three powerhouse guests:

• Jennifer Hernandez, a seasoned land use and environmental attorney with Holland & Knight, who breaks down the permitting puzzle.
• Jerry Brown, Executive Director of the long-awaited Sites Reservoir, who shares the inside story of one of California’s most ambitious water projects.
• Tom Grable, a veteran building industry executive, who connects the dots between water infrastructure and housing development.

Together, they unpack California’s permitting reform efforts, the real-world challenges of building water infrastructure, and what it will take to finally get shovels in the ground.

If you’ve ever wondered why it takes so long to build the water systems we all depend on—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now and get the full story behind the delays, the reforms, and the future of water in California.