San Diego officials highlight $5-billion stormwater infrastructure gap after heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall across San Diego County this week renewed attention on the city’s aging stormwater infrastructure and long-term funding shortfalls. Local officials said repeated flooding events underscore the need for significant investment in underground drainage systems, storm drain pipes and flood control assets. 

According to the City of San Diego’s latest five-year infrastructure outlook, stormwater funding needs now exceed $5 billion—more than double previous estimates—while projected available funding totals roughly $400 million. According to ABC News, city leaders say the widening gap reflects aging pipes, channels and pump stations, many of which are more than 50 years old and nearing the end of their service life.

San Diego currently charges a stormwater fee of about 95 cents per month for single-family homes, a rate that has not been increased since 1990. Officials noted that raising the fee would require voter approval. In the absence of new local revenue, the city continues to pursue state and federal funding, including a previously secured $733 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to support storm drain pipe replacements and other upgrades, ABC News reported.

City representatives said stormwater infrastructure remains largely out of public view but is critical for flood control, water quality protection and coastal environmental compliance. With emergency repairs placing pressure on the general operating budget, officials indicated that long-term funding solutions will be needed to address systemwide rehabilitation and modernization.

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