The International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) has awarded a contract exceeding $400 million for the expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant in San Diego, California. This significant project will be funded by federal resources secured by the state’s Congressional delegation, aiming to enhance and repair the facility.
“Today’s announcement marks a critical step forward in addressing the toxic waste and raw sewage flowing from the Tijuana River,” said Sen. Alex Padilla, D-California. He highlighted the persistent health and environmental risks caused by pollution that has long affected Southern California’s air and water, and reiterated his commitment to securing additional federal funds to address this crisis urgently.
Earlier this year, the San Diego Congressional delegation secured over $156 million for essential repairs to the plant. Additionally, in 2019, the delegation obtained $300 million to double the plant’s capacity from 25 million gallons per day to 50 million gallons per day. By 2022, legislation was passed enabling the IBWC to utilize these funds to combat harmful pollutants in the Tijuana River Valley.
“Our communities can’t wait. I’m pleased to see the IBWC take this crucial step to put the more than $400 million my colleagues and I secured for the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant to use for repairs and upgrades,” said Rep. Juan Vargas, D-San Diego. He noted that the project will help double the plant’s capacity, prevent up to 90% of untreated wastewater from reaching the coast, and ensure cleaner and safer water for the region.
In May 2024, officials urged the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate the contaminants in water, soil, and air caused by the sewage, and their potential link to increased illnesses and other health issues. The CDC has since agreed to launch an investigation into the public health impacts of the pollution from the Tijuana River.
“This announcement has been a long time coming, and I’m thrilled to see the $400 million secured by our Congressional delegation leading to substantial progress in resolving the Tijuana River Valley crisis,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-San Diego. She emphasized that while this is a significant milestone, ongoing efforts will be required to monitor the IBWC’s construction, collaborate with Mexican counterparts, and ensure the safety of communities on both sides of the border.
