Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California is set to receive $250 million in federal funding to tackle the severe sewage crisis affecting the coastal waters of San Diego County, caused by Tijuana's untreated wastewater. He emphasized that this funding will aid the ongoing expansions of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is essential for mitigating the detrimental health, environmental, and economic effects of sewage discharge.
Imperial Beach officials highlighted the drastic tourism drop from 2.1 million visitors in 2018 to fewer than 700,000 in 2023 due to the odor and polluted beaches resulting from untreated sewage. The issue prompted the Chula Vista City Council to declare a local state of emergency, showcasing the immediate need for improved wastewater management and infrastructure to restore the area's appeal.
The California Coastal Commission pointed out that the aging wastewater treatment systems on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border are failing to manage the massive volume of sewage—estimated between 35 billion to 70 billion gallons annually—from Tijuana. The commission noted that poor management, lack of maintenance, and insufficient investment have contributed to the ongoing crisis.
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