California Secures 2.9 Billion Gallons of Clean Drinking Water: What This Means for the State’s Water Infrastructure
- Jan 21
- 3 min read
California has hit a major milestone in strengthening its water infrastructure with the completion and launch of eight key projects that collectively add 2.9 billion gallons of clean drinking water to the statewide supply every year. This bold initiative, backed by strategic state funding, puts California on a stronger path toward water resilience, especially in the face of climate-driven challenges like droughts and extreme weather.
A Big Boost for California’s Water Supply
The newly completed infrastructure projects, funded through nearly $590 million in grants and low-interest loans, expand and modernize critical water systems from the Bay Area to Southern California. Together, they add around 2.9 billion gallons of fresh water annually, enough to supply water to roughly 20,000 homes per year.
These improvements help counties across the state better manage water resources, reuse wastewater, and reduce pressure on traditional sources affected by drought.
The Eight Key Projects Driving Progress
Each project tackles a specific challenge, from removing harmful contaminants to expanding drinking water capacity.
Here are some highlights:
1. PFAS Removal in Irvine
A new treatment system funded with a state grant now removes 'forever chemicals' (PFAS) from groundwater serving about 38,000 residents, ensuring safer tap water.
2. Wastewater Upgrades in San Luis Obispo
Enhancements to the Water Resource Recovery Facility improve treatment capabilities for 46,000 people while meeting strict water-quality standards.
3. Advanced Purified Water in Monterey
An advanced water purification plant brings 2,250 acre-feet of recycled water annually, benefiting thousands of households on the Monterey Peninsula.
4. Storm Resilience in San Francisco
A new facility upgrade increases capacity to handle extreme weather events and protects local waterways, benefiting over 623,000 residents.
5. Wastewater System Expansion in San Mateo
A major upgrade reduces sewer overflows and enhances stormwater management for about 160,000 people.
6. Desalination Efforts in Antioch
A brackish water desalination plant helps capture and treat river water, supporting local supply needs for about 110,000 residents.
7. New Drinking Water Sources in West Lake Tahoe
Upgraded treatment infrastructure now delivers reliable drinking water and fire protection for over 5,400 residents.
8. Improved Sewer Access in Yucca Valley
New wastewater pipelines will connect thousands of residents to sewer systems, improving sanitation and public health.
Why These Investments Matter
Water Security in a Changing Climate
California’s climate variability, with hotter temperatures, deeper droughts, and heavier storms, makes water infrastructure more critical than ever. Investing in resilient systems helps ensure reliable access to safe drinking water for all residents.
Sustainable Water Management
Projects like wastewater recycling and purification facilities reduce dependency on freshwater sources and help transform wastewater into safe drinking water, an approach increasingly important as climate pressures grow.
Public Health & Environmental Protection
Removing contaminants such as PFAS and improving stormwater handling enhances public health outcomes and protects ecosystems by preventing polluted water from entering rivers and aquifers.
What’s Next for California’s Water Future
While these infrastructure projects mark significant progress, California continues to pursue long-term solutions to water scarcity and drought resilience. Future efforts include expanding stormwater capture, increasing recycled water use, and advancing large-scale storage initiatives.
Key programs like the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund support ongoing upgrades and new projects that help communities finance water infrastructure improvements across the state.
California’s investment in water infrastructure is more than a numbers game. By strategically enhancing local systems, the state is making tangible strides toward water security, public health, and environmental sustainability, laying the groundwork for a future where communities can confidently rely on safe, clean drinking water.
Sources
2.9 Billion Gallons of Clean Drinking Water Added to California’s Supply with New Investments – Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, State of California (Official Press Release)
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund – California State Water Resources Control Board DWSRF Overview and Funding Programs) https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/services/funding/SRF.html
Nation-leading regulations for converting wastewater to drinking water go into effect as new water year begins – California State Water Resources Control Board https://waterboards.ca.gov/press_room/press_releases/2024/pr20241002.html
