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Riverside Canal Water Company Rise and Fall

By William Cortez
Community Writer
03/12/2025 at 10:47 AM

Nestled in the heart of Grand Terrace, the Riverside Canal Water Company once played a crucial role in supplying water to the growing community. Established to support agricultural and residential needs, the company was a key player in the region’s water infrastructure for decades. However, environmental concerns and regulatory challenges eventually led to its closure, leaving behind a site that has since undergone remediation efforts with an uncertain future.

 

A Legacy of Water and Growth

 

The Riverside Canal Water Company was a staple in Grand Terrace, providing water that helped sustain local farms and homes. As Grand Terrace developed from an agricultural community into a suburban town, the company adapted to the changing landscape. However, as environmental standards evolved, concerns about water contamination and soil quality at the site became significant issues.

 

Why Did It Shut Down?

 

The company ultimately ceased operations due to contamination concerns that prompted intervention from the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). In 2006, a corrective action consent agreement was put in place to address environmental risks, focusing on soil and groundwater contamination. Since then, cleanup efforts have been ongoing to ensure the site meets safety standards .

 

What’s Next for the Property?

 

Located in Grand Terrace, the former Riverside Canal Water Company site remains under close monitoring. While local officials and developers have expressed interest in repurposing the land, no concrete redevelopment plans have been announced. If and when that information becomes

available , The City of Grand Terrace website can provide updates on potential projects and environmental progress, ensuring the community remains informed .

 

As Grand Terrace continues to grow, the fate of this once-essential water company remains a topic of interest. Whether the land will be repurposed for commercial, residential, or public use is yet to be determined, but one thing is certain—the legacy of the Riverside Canal Water Company is deeply woven into the history of Grand Terrace.