A funding authorization request from U.S. Rep. Kevin Mullin for over $75 million in water infrastructure projects in San Mateo County passed the House on Sept. 16.
A bill authored by Mullin, D-South San Francisco, that addresses coordination for maintenance dredging projects at ports that makes waterways more passable for ships was also incorporated into a broader water resources package, according to the Sept. 17 press release.
The funding request for water infrastructure money revolves around five projects in San Mateo County, from East Palo Alto to Redwood City, and the authorization is a first step in local communities receiving the money. Later on, money can be appropriated up to the amount that was authorized.
The request includes funding for a new water storage facility and pump equipment improvements in East Palo Alto. Money could also be allocated to the Port of Redwood City for stormwater and sewage infrastructure and a study on flood damage reduction to protect Redwood City wastewater infrastructure, according to the press release.
Another project would allocate funding to OneShoreline, San Mateo County’s climate resilience agency, for a new water recycling facility that would be constructed with the Army Corps of Engineers.
“For our communities along the shore in particular, these long-term infrastructure improvements are crucial to reduce flooding and strengthen resilience for residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure,” Mullin said in the press release. “I’m proud to fight for these projects because they represent real, tangible investments in the safety and health of our communities.”
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