What to expect...

Our campus's other iconic water tower, located in Facilities Management's maintenance yard, got a paint refresh back in 2000. The wrap around the scaffolding protects project workers from the elements and also serves to contain dust and debris from the sandblasting and repainting process.  

One of UC Davis’ most iconic symbols is getting some much-needed TLC. The water tower located across the way from UC Davis Health Stadium — affectionately known as “Touchdown Tower” — is undergoing a significant restoration.

Project scope

Slated for completion in Fall 2025 — just in time for the first home football game — the project includes a full exterior repaint, the replacement of outdated fall protection systems to enhance worker safety, and the installation of new LED lights. In addition to the work on the outside, the interior of the tank is also being recoated. This process involves sandblasting, priming, and applying two full coats of a specialized protective paint, helping to extend the service life of the tower from the inside out.

“This work is about preservation and safety,” said UC Davis Facilities Management’s Energy Project Manager Tom Ryan. “Water towers are exposed to wind, rain, and sun 365 days a year. Without regular maintenance, the steel begins to corrode — and this is a working utility water tower. A new high-performance coating system will protect the structure and prevent rust, and new up-to-code systems will allow for safe worker access.”

The new lights will do more than just brighten the skyline — they will bring the tower to life as a symbol of campus pride. White LED lights will illuminate the top of the tower while blue and gold lights are planned for installation at ground level to shine upward during home football games.

In addition to visual updates, new safety infrastructure is being added outside the tower. This includes upgraded ladders, fall arrest systems, and platform access to meet current OSHA standards and ensure the safety of crews during inspections and maintenance for years to come.

Wrapping it up

To complete the work safely and efficiently, the tower will be fully enclosed in a protective containment system. This cocoon-like wrapping not only shields the project workers from the elements but also contains dust and debris from the sandblasting and repainting process. For a period of time, it may appear as though the tower is wearing a giant blanket — but it’s all part of the process to ensure a safe and clean job site.

This is not the first time UC Davis has invested in the long-term stewardship of its water utility infrastructure. In 2000, the campus completed a similar repainting and restoration project for the water tower located in the Facilities Management maintenance yard. That tower set the standard for what this new project will achieve: preserving a campus landmark while enhancing its function and visibility.

When the wrap comes off, the tower will return, looking better than ever and ready to shine — literally — as a beacon of Aggie pride for years to come.