WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – On May 4, 2026, the Navajo Nation approved a critical contract modification to advance planning and design efforts for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Chapter Connection Project, strengthening long-term water access for communities in Ft. Defiance and St. Michaels.
The Department of Water Resources requested the modification to its existing contract with Souder, Miller & Associates to provide additional technical engineering services focused on waterline development within both chapters. The total estimated cost of $9,380,605.79, inclusive of the 6% Navajo Nation Tax, supports comprehensive planning and design efforts necessary to move the project forward.
The approval continues broader infrastructure efforts championed by Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren since the beginning of his administration. On Sept. 15, 2023, President Nygren met with U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema in Window Rock, Arizona, where he outlined several infrastructure projects in dire need of federal support and investment. During the meeting, he emphasized the importance of improving water systems, advancing Navajo Nation water rights settlements, and continuing development of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.
President Nygren stated that infrastructure development remains essential to economic growth and improving living conditions across the Navajo Nation. The expansion reflects those ongoing priorities by helping move additional waterline planning and design efforts closer toward construction readiness for local communities.
Following review, the request was approved, with costs determined to be reasonable and aligned with the detailed line-item budget. The investment is consistent with similar engineering services and remains within funding levels previously authorized by the Navajo Nation Council, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the State of New Mexico.
In result, the contract modification was officially signed on May 4, 2026, by Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, affirming the administration’s continued commitment to expanding reliable water infrastructure and ensuring sustainable access for Navajo families.
