NADBank Blog

Two weeks ago, Jerry Sanders, president of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, announced his retirement. When asked about his successes, he shared that one achievement he takes the most pride in from his time at the Chamber is the work done to strengthen the U.S.-Mexico cross-border relationship.

As the North American Development Bank (NADBank) marks 30 productive years of operation, our efforts reflect the power of binational collaboration. For decades, NADBank has worked closely with stakeholders on both sides of the border to address shared challenges. This work will intensify in the years ahead.

While this anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on past accomplishments, our focus remains forward-looking—addressing the pressing concern of improving water resource management, including the chronic environmental pollution caused by transboundary sewage flows from the Tijuana River and northern trans-oceanic currents.

The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. Transboundary sewage flows threaten public health, damage the environment and negatively affect the economic vitality of communities in both nations. This shared challenge requires a united effort to protect our beaches, rivers and livelihoods. Long-term infrastructure solutions will require active participation from stakeholders at every level of government in both countries to secure necessary resources. NADBank’s role is to boost and coordinate these efforts, so every dollar invested achieves the greatest possible impact.

U.S. federal leaders like late Senator Dianne Feinstein championed the cause and now Senator Alex Padilla, along with Congressmembers Scott Peters and Juan Vargas continue to advocate for increased funding through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Border Water Infrastructure Program (BWIP). This critical program funds binational water and wastewater projects aimed at reducing and preventing transboundary sewage flows. Over the last five years, funding for the Border Water Infrastructure Program has steadily increased, demonstrating Washington’s commitment to resolving this issue.

On the Mexican side, Comisión Nacional del Agua (CONAGUA), the country’s federal water authority, has shown extraordinary dedication by matching U.S. federal investments dollar-for-dollar, while also leveraging additional funding from state and local governments. Since 2017, NADBank has utilized the Border Water Infrastructure Program to invest $18 million, leveraging a total of $43 million, to improve Tijuana's wastewater infrastructure. This past January, Mexico’s federal government took another critical step by breaking ground on upgrades to the San Antonio de los Buenos Wastewater Treatment Plant., a project nearing completion.

Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila is also a dedicated partner. Under her leadership, the state government and NADBank have structured a 30-year collaborative initiative funded with $150 million in debt to repair wastewater infrastructure, diversify water sources and create incentive systems for local utilities to improve their performance. As a direct result of this investment in Tijuana, four wastewater projects are currently under construction, with two others approved and scheduled to begin shortly. Upon completion, these projects will reduce transboundary flows. The Governor’s strong commitment underscores the significance of this concern for both the State and the region.

In California, the state government has prioritized this issue by including $50 million for Tijuana River and New River projects in Proposition 4, California’s climate bond. Supported by leaders like California State Senator Ben Allen and border Assemblymembers Eduardo Garcia and David Alvarez, this funding provides the Bank with an opportunity to continue fostering collaboration with the State while leveraging funds for these much-needed projects.

Local partners are also stepping up. In Mexico, the Tijuana water utility (CESPT) has been instrumental in constructing and rehabilitating wastewater collection systems. In San Diego County, local governments have studied and invested in solutions, voicing strong support for initiatives aimed at addressing the negative impact of the Tijuana River on their communities.

The recent recognition of NADBank Chief Environmental Officer Salvador Lopez as an international leader by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce acknowledges the value of the work carried out by him, NADBank, and our partners. However, the true reward lies in achieving lasting solutions.

Now is the time for continued leadership and commitment. Federal, state and local governments in both nations must sustain their investment in wastewater infrastructure to ensure cleaner water and healthier communities on both sides of the border. By working together, we can secure a brighter future for all.

*The views expressed in the article belong solely to the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of NADBank

Post Categories: U.S..-Mexico BorderSustainable DevelopmentWater