Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom recently visited wastewater treatment facilities on both sides of the border in the Tijuana River Valley to evaluate ongoing rehabilitation efforts and address the sewage crisis that has long affected local communities. This issue, which poses significant environmental and public health challenges, is being tackled through collaboration with federal, state, and local partners.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of these partnerships in making progress against cross-border pollution from the Tijuana River. He stated, "The Tijuana River sewage crisis has impacted our communities for far too long. Thanks to our partnership with international, federal, and local partners, we are making real progress. But our work is far from over — we need serious, continued action to protect public health and restore our environment."

San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas acknowledged Governor Newsom's commitment by saying, "Pollution in the Tijuana River Valley is the number one environmental health crisis impacting our region, and Governor Newsom coming to San Diego for today’s briefing shows his steadfast commitment to our communities." She further stressed the necessity of collaborative efforts involving both government officials and community stakeholders.

In addressing this longstanding issue, significant financial support has been secured. With assistance from California's congressional delegation and the Biden-Harris Administration, $453 million in federal funding was obtained for crucial upgrades at the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant. These improvements aim to drastically reduce untreated sewage flows into California's coastal waters.

State investments have also been made to clean up affected areas and provide air quality solutions for residents. Recent initiatives include a $2.7 million plan for distributing air purifiers locally. Since 2019, California has allocated $35 million toward various projects designed to mitigate pollution in the Tijuana River Valley.

Efforts are underway to expedite infrastructure repairs with commitments from federal authorities ensuring timely construction timelines. Public health monitoring continues as well; California public health officials are collaborating closely with local agencies on air quality assessments while supporting mitigation strategies aimed at protecting community wellbeing.

The state's enforcement tools are being used effectively against federal wastewater treatment plants requiring compliance within specific timelines regarding necessary repair actions such as pump replacements or sedimentation tank maintenance tasks enforced by San Diego Water Board regulations.

Finally highlighting cross-border cooperation efforts between Mexico & U.S., during his visit last year when attending President Claudia Sheinbaum’s inauguration ceremony where discussions were held concerning repairing essential facility components preventing excess flow reaching American territories; recent meetings included Baja Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda along White House officials pushing forward actionable plans resolving current crises faced throughout this region today."