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Phoenix will turn purified wastewater into drinking water. Here’s what that means.
Phoenix is rebuilding its Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant to purify treated wastewater to drinking-water standards with ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis and UV advanced oxidation. City Council approved up to $300 million for the project in February 2024, and the water is expected to reach Phoenix taps around 2028–2029.
The key facts
What is the project?
“Pure Water Phoenix” at the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant in north Phoenix, the first plant in Arizona built to turn wastewater into drinking water.
The plant supplied recycled water to parks and golf courses from 2000 to 2008. Rehabilitation construction began in August 2024 (City of Phoenix).
How is the water cleaned?
Three advanced steps after normal wastewater treatment: ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis and ultraviolet advanced oxidation.
The City says the purified water will meet or exceed federal and state drinking-water requirements. Future plants are planned at the 91st Avenue and North Gateway sites.
How much does it cost?
City Council approved up to $300 million in February 2024 (ABC15).
Recent coverage still cites about $300 million (KTAR, Connect CRE, April 2026), while KJZZ reported “roughly $350 million” in March 2026.
How much water and when?
About 7 million gallons a day, enough for roughly 25,000–30,000 homes.
The plant was about half built in spring 2026. Reported timelines vary: completion in 2027, a year of groundwater recharge, and water in city pipes in 2028–2029 (ABC15, KTAR, KJZZ).
Is it allowed in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona’s Advanced Water Purification rules took effect March 4, 2025.
ADEQ’s rules require wastewater characterization, mandatory pathogen removal, site-specific chemical controls and minimum design standards.
Why is Phoenix doing it?
Colorado River shortages. About 98% of Phoenix’s water comes from the Colorado, Salt and Verde rivers.
Purified recycled water adds a local, drought-resistant supply.
Sources: City of Phoenix: Cave Creek plant; City of Phoenix: advanced purified water; ABC15, Feb 2024; ABC15, Mar 2026; KTAR, Apr 2026; KJZZ, Mar 2026; Connect CRE, Apr 2026; ADEQ
What it means for your home
Purified recycled water is designed to meet the same drinking-water standards as the rest of Phoenix’s supply. It doesn’t change the reasons people treat water at home: Phoenix water is very hard, chlorinated, and high in dissolved solids. A softener handles hardness, carbon handles chlorine taste, and reverse osmosis purifies drinking water at the kitchen tap. Curious what’s in your water today? Get a free water test.