Basin at Boeing site to buoy water recycling system

A new water basin on part of the former Boeing Co. site is expected to dramatically increase the water recycling program of the Orange Country Water District. The district is buying almost 18 acres for a basin from the Panattoni Development Co., which is constructing nearby industrial buildings where Boeing used to operate. The $28.4 million sale is expected to close later this month, according to the district. The land will be used for a recharge pond in the district s Groundwater Replenishment System, which turns sewer water into drinking water. The water goes through a series of treatments, ending when it is pumped into basins in Anaheim where it percolates into the groundwater aquifer. The district already runs a series of basins nearby. But the new basin would allow the amount of water recycled to increase from 70 million to IOO million gallons a day, said Michael Markus, the district s general manager. The basin could start operating early next year on the city s east side. eny drop of water we can, Markus said. The basin will sit behind a monument dedicated to the former Autonetics and Boeing businesses and alongside a diversion channel, hidden from view from the main thoroughfare. The proximity to the channel and the geology make it a good location for a basin, Markus said. The new plan is less dramatic than one proposed six years ago. The district s board threatened to use eminent domain to take the 102 acres of the Boeing property. City and business officials protested, saying the land should be used for job creation. Instead, the board backed down, deciding to study other locations. In the latest plan, Panattoni opted to put a portion of the land up for sale and made a deal directly with the water district. The district serves more than 2.3 million residents, supplying water to more than 20 cities and wate