County takes steps to protect Lake Tahoe’s pristine waters as it awards water quality project in Kings Beach


Published July 10, 2023 

Lower Secline Water Quality project in Kings Beach. In an effort to improve lake clarity and reduce sediment loading from roadway runoff to protect the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe, Placer County is moving forward with construction of the transformative Lower Secline Water Quality project in Kings Beach.

The Placer County Board of Supervisors recently authorized a contract award of $580,951 to F.W. Carson Co. out of Incline Village, Nevada, for construction of this vital water quality improvement project - located on Secline Street south of state Route 28 and encompassing the western portion of Brockway Vista Avenue in the Kings Beach commercial core.

“We’re excited to see construction begin on this project because it’s vital for protecting the lake,” said Placer’s Public Works Deputy Director Rebecca Taber. “Both Secline Street and Brockway Vista Avenue are in poor condition and only about 200 feet from the lake, so sediment washes right down to the beach during major storms. This project will stabilize and protect exposed soil and provide treatment of this runoff to alleviate that concern.”

Moreover, this undertaking brings additional benefits for the community, including the formalization of 14 existing parking spaces, which currently exist on dirt and gravel surfaces and contribute to water quality issues. The project also includes the installation of a sidewalk along the western side of Secline Street connecting to the commercial core, improved access to the North Tahoe Public Utility District’s lift station located at the end of Secline Street, and provisions for a future 10-foot-wide shared-use path as identified in the Tahoe Basin Area Plan. 

“Placer County remains committed to preserving the integrity of Lake Tahoe, and through collaborative efforts, we can ensure a sustainable and vibrant future for this iconic destination,” added Taber. “These enhancements will create a more sustainable and connected community, improving water quality, promoting accessibility, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents and visitors.”

Funding for this critical initiative is being provided through Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act water quality funds administered through the U.S. Forest Service and water quality mitigation funds through the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency.

Construction is anticipated to begin later this summer and will be completed by Oct. 15, 2023.

Learn more on the project webpage here.