NW Riverside News

Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) has announced the allocation of more than $9 million in federal funding for three water infrastructure projects in Riverside County. The funding, included at his request in the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill, was approved by a majority vote in the House of Representatives last week. According to Rep. Calvert, this funding will not increase the overall spending level of the bill as it is allocated within respective agency program accounts.

“The resources provided in the FY25 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill for water infrastructure projects in the 41st District will have a big impact in our communities,” said Rep. Calvert. “I am proud of the collaborative effort between our local cities, water districts, and my office to deliver this funding in support of projects that will increase our local water supplies as well as improve the water quality in our neighborhoods.”

The largest portion of this funding, $4 million, is designated for the Quail Valley Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Project requested by the Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD). This project aims to convert septic systems to sewer systems for "subarea 4," benefiting approximately 250 low-income families by addressing sewage backup issues and enhancing system reliability. EMWD Board President Phil Paule expressed gratitude for Rep. Calvert’s support: “EMWD is exceptionally grateful for Rep. Calvert’s consistent support for addressing sewer infrastructure needs in Quail Valley. This project funding directly benefits an underserved community.”

Additionally, $3 million has been allocated to rehabilitate the Corydon Well in Wildomar through a request from Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD). The well improvement project aims to serve 159,000 people along with numerous institutional, commercial, and industrial users across southwestern Riverside County. EVMWD Board President Chance Edmondson highlighted the importance of these investments: “As our region continues to grow and confronts the challenges of climate change, these investments are vital. They will help diversify our water supply, enhance reliability, and ensure long-term resilience for our community.”

Lastly, $2,058,240 is set aside for Norco's Recycled Water Improvement Project to build a recycled water pipeline serving both Norco and the nearby Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona Division. Norco Mayor Kevin Bash emphasized its significance: “Norco has taken steps to implement recycled water infrastructure to provide for long-term sustainability... Our ability to provide a source of recycled water...is a significant investment in Norco.”