Participants completed a 3.5-mile walk around the reservoir, stopping along the route to view historical displays and speak with LADWP staff about the infrastructure that delivers water to Los Angeles.
Construction of the Mulholland Dam began in 1923 under William Mulholland, chief engineer of Los Angeles’ early water system. The dam was completed in December 1924 and dedicated in March 1925, expanding water storage capacity after the Los Angeles Aqueduct began delivering water to the city in 1913.
Although the Hollywood Reservoir is no longer used as a primary drinking water source, it still plays a role in emergency preparedness and firefighting support for the city.
“Today, we celebrate two important milestones – Women’s History Month and the legacy of the Mulholland Dam,” said LADWP Chief Executive Officer and Chief Engineer Janisse Quiñones. “This reservoir continues to serve Los Angeles, not only as a valued open space for the community, but also as a resource during emergencies.”
Exhibitors along the route also highlighted programs such as Pure Water Los Angeles, which focuses on expanding recycled water supplies in the region.
Water reliability remains a central issue for Southern California. According to regional water agencies, much of the area’s supply still depends on imported water from Northern California and the Colorado River, leaving cities vulnerable to drought and climate pressures.
Programs like Pure Water Los Angeles aim to strengthen long-term supply by increasing wastewater recycling and groundwater replenishment.
Labor leaders at the event also highlighted efforts to recruit more women into utility and infrastructure careers through training and apprenticeship programs.
The water sector nationwide faces a growing workforce challenge as experienced operators retire. Federal agencies and industry groups have warned that utilities must expand recruitment and training pipelines to maintain essential services.
Christine Mulholland, the great-granddaughter of William Mulholland, also attended the event and reflected on the legacy of Los Angeles’ early water system.
“Water doesn’t simply come from turning on the tap,” she said. “It represents generations of engineering, conservation, and public service that made Los Angeles possible.”
The walk concluded with a group photo at the historic dam, a reminder of the infrastructure and workforce that continue to support the city’s water system more than a century after it was built.
