Perris, CA (March 23, 2022) — Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) has received $3.5 million in federal funding for two projects that will improve services in economically disadvantaged communities thanks in large part to two local congressional representatives.

The recently signed into law FY 2022 omnibus appropriations bill provided two United States Environmental Protection Agency State and Tribal Assistance Grants to EMWD for water and wastewater services.

Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-42^nd) secured $2.5 million for the next phase of EMWD’s Quail Valley septic-to-sewer project, which will transition homes in the Quail Valley community of Menifee from failing septic systems that contaminate ground and surface water supplies to a new modernized sewer system to help protect public and environmental health in the community.

Rep. Mark Takano (CA-41^st) helped secure $1 million for the Mead Valley Booster Station Replacement project, which will upgrade system pressure, water supply reliability, and fire flow capabilities in the unincorporated community of Mead Valley.

EMWD worked directly with both Congressmen to advocate for inclusion in the funding programs. EMWD is one of the nation’s most successful water and wastewater agencies in securing external funding – particularly to help support disadvantaged communities – having secured more than $500 million in federal, state and local grants in the past 15 years.

“EMWD sincerely appreciates the efforts of our local members of Congress, including Reps. Calvert and Takano, who worked with our organization to advance these funding priorities to benefit our mutual constituents,” EMWD Board President Phil Paule said. “Because of these funding sources, our customers will benefit from improved services without having to bear the entire financial burden.

“EMWD is grateful for the strong working relationship we have with our elected representatives and their staffs, and we look forward to future opportunities to work together for the benefit of those who we have the pleasure of serving.”

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Eastern Municipal Water District is the water, wastewater service and recycled water provider to nearly one million people living and working within a 558-square mile service area in western Riverside County. It is California’s sixth-largest retail water agency, and its mission is “To deliver value to our diverse customers and the communities we serve by providing safe, reliable, economical and environmentally sustainable water, wastewater and recycled water services.”
More information can be found at www.emwd.org.