California Construction News staff writer
California Construction News has recognized Caliagua, Inc. for its exceptional contributions to water infrastructure, naming two of the company’s projects among the state’s prestigious Top 10 Projects. These two standout initiatives highlight Caliagua’s leadership in sustainable water treatment solutions and heavy civil construction. Located in the Coachella Valley and Tustin, the projects showcase the company’s ability to address complex environmental and engineering challenges while pushing the boundaries of innovation.
24-Acre Lagoon at Disney’s Cotino Community
One of the standout projects is the creation of a 24-acre lagoon in Rancho Mirage, a key feature of Disney’s Cotino community—a part of the Storyliving by Disney™ development. Designed by Crystal Lagoons®, this state-of-the-art tropical lagoon is set to transform California’s desert landscape, offering a crystal-clear aquatic centerpiece for residents.
Caliagua served as the general contractor for the project, handling the construction of the lagoon’s complex infrastructure. This included the installation of advanced mechanical systems, water filtration, and sustainable water management features. Notably, the project incorporates a dual piping system for irrigation, an onsite water recycling facility to capture rainwater and runoff, and eco-friendly technologies that significantly reduce water and chemical usage compared to traditional pools.
With Crystal Lagoons’ low-energy circulation model, the lagoon will set a new benchmark for sustainability in large-scale recreational amenities. This collaboration between Caliagua, Crystal Lagoons, and Disney demonstrates how innovative engineering can integrate luxurious design with environmental responsibility.
Tustin’s PFAS Water Treatment Facility
Another top project recognized by California Construction News is the Tustin PFAS water treatment facility, which is focused on removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the city’s groundwater supply. Located at the City of Tustin’s Main Street Facility, this state-of-the-art treatment system ensures safe, clean drinking water for local residents.
Caliagua played a pivotal role in installing the complex systems required for PFAS treatment, including influent and effluent pipelines, a dual-media pressure vessel, and an ion-exchange nitrate removal system. The company also oversaw the removal and replacement of outdated equipment, modernizing the facility to meet stringent water quality standards.
In addition to the physical infrastructure, the project involved collaboration with the City’s Instrumentation and Control specialists to integrate the new systems into the existing SCADA system, enabling real-time monitoring and efficient operation. The Tustin PFAS treatment facility highlights Caliagua’s expertise in addressing complex environmental challenges while improving public health and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Both projects reflect Caliagua’s commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with sustainable design principles. From the environmentally conscious water features at the Coachella Valley lagoon to the advanced water treatment systems in Tustin, these projects exemplify how forward-thinking infrastructure solutions can drive positive environmental and community impacts.
With these high-profile projects, Caliagua continues to set new standards for water infrastructure in California, positioning itself as a leader in innovative, sustainable solutions for some of the state’s most complex and challenging construction endeavors.
The following projects were also recognized in the top 10:
Swinerton: Orange County Sanitation District Headquarters combines green building practices with community engagement, featuring a Net Zero Energy system powered by rooftop solar arrays and a unique system that captures excess hot water to supply 60% of the building’s energy. With expected LEED Gold certification and a focus on biophilic design, this headquarters sets a new standard for civic buildings in Southern California.
Raymond Group: The Horton Plaza redevelopment in San Diego transforms the nation’s largest adaptive reuse project into a vibrant LEED Platinum live-work-play campus. This project exemplifies how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into an urban landmark while maintaining environmental responsibility and aesthetic appeal.
David Baker Architects and Roberts-Obayashi Corporation: Blue Oak Landing in Vallejo provides 75 units of supportive housing designed to meet the needs of previously homeless families. The use of prefabricated units not only accelerates construction but also addresses the site’s environmental challenges.
Swinerton: Labath Landing project includes housing for 60 individuals experiencing homelessness. Opened ahead of schedule and just before winter, this project reflects the dedication of the Swinerton crew and their commitment to addressing California’s homelessness crisis through rapid, thoughtful construction.
Clark Construction: Orange County Museum of Art has a 53,000-square-foot space featuring flexible galleries and a stunning exterior of terra cotta panels. The project emphasized safety and precision, with intricate scaffolding systems and custom tie-offs ensuring worker safety during the installation of the building’s unique elements.
Hensel Phelps: 1021 O Street State Office Building in Sacramento is a 472,000-square-foot building with office space for the state that achieved Net-Zero Energy and Net-Zero Carbon certification. The project demonstrates the state’s commitment to sustainable design and resilient infrastructure, making it a key part of California’s long-term environmental goals.
Walter P Moore: Acrisure Arena in Coachella Valley is a 10,000-seat arena, which serves as both a concert venue and hockey arena, presented unique challenges due to its location near the San Andreas Fault. The team’s innovative engineering solutions, including shared foundations and the use of Buckling Restrained Brace frames, ensured the arena could withstand seismic forces, high winds, and heavy rigging loads while maintaining aesthetic integrity.
David Baker Architects: Blue Oak Landing in Vallejo, features 75 units dedicated to providing homes for previously homeless families. The creative use of prefabricated units not only accelerates construction but also addresses the unique environmental challenges of the site.
