California to award $46 million in grants for Tijuana River cleanup

California officials announced Thursday they will distribute $46 million in grants to reduce sewage, bacteria and trash flowing into the Tijuana River at the California-Mexico border. The money comes from Proposition 4, a $10 billion bond measure approved by voters in 2024.

At least 40 percent of the funds must go to communities hardest hit by pollution. Since 2018, more than 100 billion gallons of raw sewage containing industrial chemicals and trash have entered the river, according to the International Boundary and Water Commission.

The pollution flows into the Pacific Ocean and releases hydrogen sulfide gas that can cause respiratory irritation.

Background on the pollution The United States and Mexico signed an agreement last year to upgrade wastewater plants in Tijuana to handle population growth and industrial waste. Officials said the upgrades are intended to address the cross-border flow.

Tens of thousands of residents, mainly in low-income areas, have been exposed to the sewage. An Environmental Protection Agency official stated in February that repairs would take a couple of years.

Statements from officials and advocates A state news release quoted an official saying residents should not have to worry about illness or beach closures. The same release noted that California has provided funding repeatedly but called for federal participation to reach a permanent solution.

An environmental nonprofit director said the grants are needed but represent only a small share of the total cost. The director added that expanded federal funding is required to repair and enlarge wastewater infrastructure.