Governor Gavin Newsom announces a $250 million federal funding boost to combat the Tijuana River sewage crisis plaguing San Diego’s coast.
At a Glance
- $250 million in federal funds secured to address Tijuana River sewage crisis
- Funds will repair and expand South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant
- Crisis has led to 1,000 consecutive days of beach closures
- Total of $703 million in federal funding secured for wastewater treatment upgrades
- Mexico constructing new $33-million wastewater plant to aid in crisis resolution
Federal Funding Secured for Sewage Crisis
In a significant development for San Diego County, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the procurement of $250 million in federal assistance to address the ongoing Tijuana River sewage crisis. The funds, made possible through legislation approved by President Biden, are earmarked for repairing and expanding the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant near the U.S.-Mexico border.
The sewage crisis has had far-reaching consequences, resulting in 1,000 consecutive days of beach closures and significantly impacting public health, the local economy, and ecosystems. The federal funding is part of a larger $703 million package, with $353 million allocated this year and $350 million from the previous year, all dedicated to crucial wastewater treatment upgrades.
Thanks to federal, state & local partners, California secured an additional $250M to address cross-border pollution from the Tijuana River.
We’re delivering the resources needed to protect public health, restore our beaches & give residents the clean air & water they deserve. pic.twitter.com/bn0cAbAfVn
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) December 21, 2024
State Efforts and International Cooperation
California has not been idle in facing this environmental challenge. Since 2019, the state has invested $35 million in cleanup efforts and air quality improvements in the Tijuana River Valley. Specific state-funded projects include the Tijuana River Valley Recovery Team, Goat Canyon sediment and trash basins, and the Smuggler’s Gulch Improvement Project.
“For far too long, communities in the Tijuana River Valley have borne the brunt of this cross-border pollution crisis. Today’s funding marks a long-term turning point — we are delivering the resources needed to protect public health, restore our beaches, and give residents the clean air and water they deserve,” Governor Gavin Newsom said.
Recognizing the international nature of the problem, Governor Newsom has engaged with both federal and Mexican partners. Mexico is taking steps to address the issue on its side of the border, constructing a new $33-million wastewater plant to replace the aging San Antonio de los Buenos facility in Baja.
Impact on Local Communities
The sewage crisis has taken a toll on local communities. Imperial Beach has seen a decline in tourism, while the Chula Vista City Council was compelled to declare a local state of emergency. In response to health concerns, San Diego County plans to purchase $2.7 million worth of air purifiers for residents, with the state agreeing to reimburse this expense.
The California Coastal Commission has noted the deterioration of wastewater treatment infrastructure on both sides of the border, attributing the poor conditions to deferred maintenance, disinvestment, and inadequate management. Federal authorities have committed to expedited construction timelines for the much-needed infrastructure repairs.
As the region looks forward to cleaner beaches and improved public health, the substantial federal funding represents a significant step towards resolving this long-standing environmental and health crisis affecting both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.
