The City of San Diego has landed a substantial financial boost for its infrastructure, securing a $240.6 million loan for dam improvements, including the aging Lake Hodges Dam. As detailed by the City of San Diego, Mayor Todd Gloria expressed his gratitude to the Biden-Harris Administration for selecting San Diego for the Corps Water Infrastructure Financing Program (CWIFP). "The safety of our critical infrastructure, like our City-owned and -operated dams, is essential to public safety and lowering costs for ratepayers across our city," Gloria emphasized.
Having traveled several times to the nation's capital, Mayor Gloria and local leaders have lobbied hard for federal dollars to fund the dam enhancement efforts. On a recent April visit, as part of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce delegation, he discussed the need with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Water. Their dedicated advocacy has paid off, with San Diego being one of the first 18 beneficiaries under this new federal loan initiative.
Investing in the dam's infrastructure is not just about current needs but about adapting to future challenges. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50) voiced his support for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which paved the way for this funding. "The Lake Hodges Dam is over a century old and one of 42 dams in California with restricted water storage. It’s important that the design and construction of our most critical infrastructure be of this century and able to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way," Peters told the City of San Diego's news outlet.
With the loan, the city plans to construct a new roller-compacted concrete dam downstream from Lake Hodges Dam. The replacement aims to meet current safety standards and address water supply and operational needs. During the forthcoming year, San Diego's authorities will engage with the US Army Corps of Engineers to finalize the terms of the agreement.
The CWIFP provides significant funds and better financial terms than usual loans. Borrowers benefit from lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Projects like San Diego's must show they are financially and technically sound, economically justified, and meet strict environmental standards to qualify. As San Diego works on improving dam safety, this program highlights how smart investments can strengthen our community against future challenges.
