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Survey Finds Nearly All South Bay Residents Concerned by Tijuana River Sewage Crisis

A county action plan backed by $650 million rolls out alongside a long-term federal health study.

A sign warns people of the contaminated ocean water in Imperial Beach, which has been plagued by untreated sewage from Tijuana for years. (U-T)
Sewage flows down Tijuana River Valley.

Overview

  • Participants in the CDC’s Assessment of Chemical Exposures survey reported widespread environmental worries, with 97% concerned about air quality, 96% about beach water safety and 86% about drinking water cleanliness.
  • Sixty-four percent of respondents said they experienced new or worsening physical symptoms in the past 30 days, citing headaches, runny nose, congestion and coughing.
  • Eighty percent reported altering daily routines or avoiding outdoor areas to reduce pollution exposure, and 67% said they do not believe the South Bay is safe to live, work or visit.
  • The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted 3-1 on July 1 to advance a plan that taps $650 million in federal funds for wastewater treatment upgrades.
  • The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry has launched a two-year assessment to evaluate hazardous substances and community health outcomes in the Tijuana River Valley.