EPA Says U.S.-Mexico Tijuana River Cleanup Is Accelerating

Overview

• EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said binational projects are being fast-tracked with weekly progress checks and pressure on Mexico to deliver pledged support.
• Federal lawmakers reported $653 million committed to the effort, with Democrats and Republicans describing rare cross-party alignment on the cleanup.
• The South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant has been repaired and expanded from 25 to 35 million gallons per day, with a planned next phase to reach at least 50 million.
• Mexico repaired the Punta Bandera plant in April, and officials said projects under construction are set to block 5 million gallons per day from entering the river and divert 10 million gallons per day of treated effluent, with several completions expected in 2026.
• San Diego County is distributing air purifiers, launching a health study, and seeking funds for the Saturn Boulevard hot spot as officials warn long-term operations and maintenance and health resources remain unmet needs.